VALIER – Ronald Paul Mick, 84, of Valier, passed away on April 16, 2025, at Helia Healthcare Center in Benton.

He was born on July 19, 1940, at Miner’s Hospital in West Frankfort, IL, to Sophia (Dubonouski) Mick Zimny and Frank Mick.

He graduated from Valier Community High School and Southern Illinois University where he received his Bachelors of Science degree in both Biological Science and Mathematics. Ron went on to teach for 33 years starting at Webster Junior High School in Benton, Sesser-Valier Junior High, American School in Honduras, North Junior High in Collinsville, Driftw0od Middle School in Hollywood, FL and Central Junior High in Newton.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Geraldine Mercer; and one brother; Joseph Zimny.

He is survived by his sister, Marsha (Zimny) Coady; nieces, Kathy (Donnie) Smith and Amy (John) Prudent; one nephew, Frank (Melody) Mercer; great-nieces and nephews, Jillian Prudent, Lucas Prudent, Jacob Waters, Samuel Waters, Suzanne Coady, Lisa Macera, Michael Coady, Jeffrey Coady, Joseph Zimny, Julie (Peter) Shpik and Katheryn Zimny; Ron’s special friends, Sharon Songer, John Daugherty and Maxine Kimmel.

Ron’s wishes were to be cremated. A private graveside service will be held at a later day at Masonic & IOOF Cemetery in Benton.

Donations can be made to the ASPCA (Association Society for the Prevention and Cruelty to Animals) and will be accepted at the funeral home.

For more information go to our website www.gilbertfuneralhomes.com.