Ronald J. Firrek

age 74, Master Sergeant, U.S. Army (Ret.), peacefully went home to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Friday, April 14, 2023. Ronald was preceded in death by his loving parents, Andrew and Ann Joan Firrek. He is survived by his siblings: Andrea Firrek, Joanne (Alan) Dean, Marianne (Dan) Cox and Philip (Roxane) Firrek, as well as many nieces, one nephew and extended family. Ronald will be especially missed by his special friends, June Durbin and Christine White as well as his military comrades, Reginald Fujimoto, Peter Siegel and William Mackowiak.

Ronald was born on December 30, 1948 in Hammond, Indiana, where he grew up and went on to graduate from Bishop Noll Institute in 1966. Following high school, he attended the University of Notre Dame before choosing to enlist in the U.S. Army. Ron continuously made sacrifices during his 26-year military career, never failing to choose the defense of our nation over any personal goals. During this career he traveled all over the world including two tours of duty in Vietnam as well as Germany, Japan, Panama and Turkey to name a few. He was the recipient of many awards during his military career including the Bronze Star. His parents were especially proud of Ron when he was named "Soldier of the Month" in January 1974 while stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, home of the 82 ^nd Airborne.

Ron was a die-hard White Sox fan but rooted for all Chicago sports teams. He often spoke about moving back to Northwest Indiana to enjoy his senior years. Ron enjoyed watching history documentaries and his dinners out with June. He could often be heard reminiscing about his wonderful childhood and his mother's arsenal of great recipes, except eggplant hash!

Ron's sacrifices during his military career separated him from his family, but that never lessened their love for each other. He was a true soldier whose career was spent for the defense of this country. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, DIRECTLY at St. John Bosco Church, 7113 Columbia Avenue, Hammond, IN with Fr. Jeffrey D. Burton officiating. Friends may visit with the family at the church from 9:30 AM until time of Mass. Burial and Military Honors to follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Hammond. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project: https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate

Solan Pruzin Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.