Ronald August Raelson, D.O., of Valparaiso, passed away at his home on
Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2010. He was 60.
Born May 17, 1949 in Valparaiso, he was the son of August and Harriett (Jungjohan)
Raelson, who preceded him in death.
He is survived by his loving wife Charlene; children Noelle Raelson, Kristel
Kuwabara (husband Yuki) and Andrew Raelson; granddaughter Zelie Raelson;
siblings Rebecca Skonicki (Francis), Roberta Raelson, Roger Raelson, and
Rorie Horsely (Chris); and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and special
friends.
After graduating from Valparaiso High School in 1967, Ron attended
Valparaiso University and completed his undergraduate degree at Indiana
University in 1972. He received his Masters Degree in Microbiology at the
University of Minnesota in 1974 and pursued doctoral studies at Michigan
State University. After directing the microbiology department at Porter
Memorial Hospital, Ron entered medical school, graduating with the
President’s Award for Academic Excellence from the Oklahoma State University
College of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery in 1987. Upon completing
residency, Ron practiced family medicine in Valparaiso and Chesterton, and
for the last 15 years he had been with the Westchester Medical Group in
Chesterton.
Through his many accomplishments, Ron remained connected to and proud of his
Swedish heritage, taking a trip of a lifetime in 2007 with his father, wife
and siblings to connect with his Swedish extended family. Ron enjoyed
traveling with his wife to many destinations, meeting wonderful friends
along the way. He also looked forward to fishing at the river, gathering
with his family and caring for his many patients. He will be truly missed by
all.
Friends may visit on Friday, Feb. 19 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Bartholomew Funeral
Home, 102 Monroe St., Valparaiso. Funeral services will be held on Saturday,
Feb. 20 at 11 a.m. at Bartholomew’s, with Pastor Mike Eddy officiating.
Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to
the American Cancer Society in honor of his mother, Harriett Raelson. To
sign a guestbook, visit
www.bartholomewnewhard.com
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