Paul Ringer Sr.

Paul Nelson Ringer Sr., 87, of Ottawa, passed away Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center in Rockford.

Following his wishes, no services will be held. Burial will be in Oakwood Memorial Park. Cremation rites have been entrusted to Ottawa Funeral Home. Paul was born October 1, 1937, in Deer Park Township to Paul and Helen (Rasmussen) Ringer. He married Alta Conner on January 6, 1966. She preceded him in death on June 9, 2023. He worked for many years at Smith & Douglas Fertilizer in Streator and later at Illinois Laundry. When he wasn't working, he enjoyed gardening and taking care of his yard as well as sitting on his front porch waving at the cars going by.

He is survived by his children, Dion (Audrey) Ringer and Paul (Cheryl) Ringer Jr.; his grandchildren, Lindsey (Richard) Chavez, Tyler (Catherine) Ringer, Cameron (Laura) Ringer, and Jobe (Hannah) Ringer; his great grandchildren, Miley Chavez, and Stryder, Willow, Ezra, and Amos Ringer; and his sisters, Helen (Robert) Cimei, Cecelia (Bill) Beavers, and Sharon (Sweed) Kjelgren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Helen; his wife of 57 years, Alta; his grandson, Cody; his sister Eldora Ringer; and his brother, Raymond Ringer.

Memorial contributions in Paul's honor may be directed to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.