Stephen "Ronnie" Rondou

Stephen "Ronnie" Rondou

April 07, 1957 - October 11, 2026

Obituary

Stephen A. "Ronnie" Rondou, devoted husband, father, brother and lifelong friend, passed away unexpectedly on October 11, 2026 after a brief illness. He was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin on April 7, 1957, to parents Leona (Peer) and Edwin Rondou.

After attending college at University of Wisconsin in Madison, Steve made the Madison area his lifelong home.  Steve considered himself an entrepreneur, owning several businesses including Ronnie’s Clean Laundry, Alladin’s Firewood and Advanced Pallet.  For the past 20 years he worked as an independent contractor, installing custom window treatments for commercial properties in the Madison area.

Recently retired, Steve was passionate about spending time with family and friends (who truly were his family). He enjoyed being outdoors starting his days on morning walks with Cindy, golfing with friends whenever the opportunity arose, spending time in the garden with Tristan, attending Milwaukee Brewer games, and exploring warm places in the winter months with Cindy.  Steve was also an amazing chef who enjoyed preparing food for everyone.

Steve leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love, steadfast friendships and compassion for all.  He is survived by his wife, Cindy Prentice, best friend and love of his life; his cherished son Tristan, constant source of pride and joy in his life, his sister Mary Rondou with whom he shared special memories and an unbreakable bond.  He is further survived by his siblings, Lea Ann Rondou, Linda (Ed) VandenPlas, Robert Rondou, Laurie (Barton) Bowers, and Carol Rondou; nieces and nephews, Jessica VandenPlas, Jonathan VandenPlas, Michael Paul Thomas, Anastasia Hart, Melanie Kakwitch and Nathan Bowers; and his brothers-in-law. He was preceded in death by his parents and nephew, Justin Bowers.  He also leaves behind Quincy and Toby, the furry ones who will miss his daily anecdotes.

Ronnie's steady presence, kind heart, and easygoing nature made him a cornerstone in the lives of many. He will be deeply missed by his family, his lifelong friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

A celebration of Ronnie's life will be held at a later date. In his memory, his family encourages you to spend time in nature, cherish your loved ones and live life as if every day is your last!  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Madison Area Down Syndrome Society.

For more information or to leave a memory, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

2418 N. Sherman Avenue

608-249-8257

Events

There are no public events for Stephen at this time.
JP
Jimmy Peltier
Friend •
Ronnie was a great friend of mine for nearly 50 years. Over that time he made every encounter, every day, and every minute a joy. Ronnie left us suddenly, making it difficult for me to process the loss that I am feeling now and will undoubtedly be felt for a long time. Cindy, Ronnie loved and adored you. He told me that many times. Tristen, your father loved you as well, and was so proud of you. We had many conversations of how you impacted his life. Cindy and Tristen, Renee and I wish you and your family the best as you progress through life and hope you smile and cry in equal measure when you think about Ronnie. Jimmy
DK
David A Krier
Friend •
Ronnie was a very special friend through thick and thin, beginning with our college years playing softball at UW and Lodi through 40 years of travel, tragedy and triumph. -David "Stee" Krier The photo is us celebrating our birthday week skiing in Whistler, BC

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