Ronald Flaa

Ron was born August 22, 1944, in Dawson, Minn., to Marjorie (Twite) and Milford Flaa.  Ron passed away Friday, September 20, 2024, at St. Marys Hospital, Rochester, Minn., at the age of 80.

Ron graduated from Boyd High School in 1962 and then attended Mankato State University where he earned a Bachelor’s in Health Education in 1966. After graduation, he started his first job teaching physical education at Mabel-Canton Schools.  He later went on to earn his Master’s in Education from Winona State University. During his 25 years teaching at Mabel-Canton Schools, he also coached various sports.  He was always quick to share fond memories of his athletes and coaching years which brought a laugh and big smile to his face.  He taught at Mabel-Canton Schools until 1990 and then changed careers to work for Thrivent Financial until his retirement. Upon retirement, Ron enjoyed driving the Amish families and the many stories and jokes they shared.   

Ron was an avid hunter, fisherman and sports fan.  For several years, he looked forward to his annual fishing trip to Lake Winnie with his best of friends. He enjoyed watching the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Twins, but especially the Wartburg Knights football team.  To celebrate his 80th birthday, he attended a Twins game with his family, and he thoroughly enjoyed the day.  But Ron found his greatest joy when he attended his grandchildren’s sporting events.  He was a proud dad and grandpa.  

Ron is survived by his wife of 41 years, Cheryl (Grimes), and daughter Kirsten (Doug) Wyffels of Mabel and their two children, Drew and Lauren; brother Larry (Pam) Flaa of Lakeville, Minn., and two nephews, Jason and Michael; other children: Jadi (Joe) Kriener of Cresco, Iowa, and their three daughters Hayley, Jacy and Joey;  Niki (Jeff) Gitch of New Hampton, Iowa, and their children Nicole (Thomas) Schneider of North Liberty, Josh (Dee) Gitch of North Liberty, and Jerzi Gitch;  Teri (Bryan) Benson of Lanesboro, Minn., and their children Payton and Reece; Dustin (Nia) Hageman of Rochester, Minn., and their three daughters Devyn, Harpyr and Brylie; great-granddaughter Rebel Rose (Hayley), and great-grandsons Jack, Dexter (Nicole) and Tyson (Josh); sisters-in-law Janice Grimes and Martha Grimes, and many nieces and nephews.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws Haldain and Helen Grimes and two brothers-in-law, Kenneth and Allen Grimes.  

He was dearly loved, was a friend to many, touched countless lives, and will be missed by all who knew him.  We are forever grateful for the care received from St. Marys Hospital and their team.  

Celebration of life will be held October 26, 2024, 1-3 p.m. at the Mabel Community Center. The Mengis Funeral Home in Mabel is assisting with arrangements.