RONALD W. YANTZ SR.

VERGENNES — Ronald W. Yantz Sr., 79, passed away peacefully Friday, Aug. 29, 2025, at his home in Vergennes surrounded by his family.

He was born July 6, 1946, in Middlebury, the son of Warren and Madeline (Kenyon) Yantz Sr. He was predeceased by his brother Warren (Jay) Yantz Jr. and wife Joan (Rivait), and his sister Joyce Yantz. He grew up on the family farm in Ferrisburgh, but also worked on other farms, and eventually found his calling, fixing cars.

He specialized in frames, body work, restoration, and painting. He loved it, and you could always find him whistling while he worked. He worked at several body shops over the years, and even owned his own business called Yantz’s Auto Body in North Ferrisburgh. He loved deer hunting, playing cards with his daughter Chrystal and friends, watching NASCAR races, and car shows. He loved old cars and fast motors, especially 1967 Chevy Camaros.

Ron had the biggest heart and couldn’t tell anyone no when asked for help, even if it meant putting himself out. He was never afraid to get his hands dirty and worked more than he should have had to. He loved to tell jokes (especially about his missing finger), recite tongue twisters, and never missed an opportunity to make people laugh. He was married to Martha Martin for 34 years, and they had three beautiful children together. They divorced, and he later on found his soul mate, Roberta Hartwell, who passed away two years ago. His children and siblings meant the world to him, probably more than most realized, as well as his friends.

Ronald is survived by his three children, son Ronald W. Yantz Jr. and wife Geni (Delk), daughter Chrystal (Yantz) and husband Lonie Parker, and daughter Darci Yantz; his grandchildren, Ronald W Yantz III, Brendan Yantz, Angelina Yantz, Allysha DeVoid, Grady DeVoid, Dakota Parker, Julieanne McGrath, and Patricia Leigh; and his siblings, his twin brother Robert Yantz and wife Victoria (Blaise), brother Douglas Yantz and wife Angele (LeDuc), brother Lyle Yantz and wife Jennifer, sister Stella Mead and husband Red, and sister Betty Martin (Yantz) and husband Larry; many nieces and nephews, and one grandchild.

A celebration of life will be held on Sept. 14 from 1-5 p.m. at the American Legion in Vergennes, Vt., downstairs. There will be food and drinks provided, as well as a cash bar. Please join us in remembering and honoring Ron’s beautiful life.◊