Ronald L. Barr

Ronald L. Barr, 76, of Sparland Illinois, died on November 14, 2022 at UnityPoint Methodist in Peoria. Born September 2, 1946 in Peoria Illinois to Robert and Marjorie (Reiff) Barr, he married Janet Davis on November 12, 1966 and three days later left For the Marines. He returned to the area and served six years in the Reserves. He started working as a teen at Gambles in Lacon and a busboy at Club Lacon. Ron was a go-to guy and he could answer or solve any problem presented. Once married and after the birth of their beautiful baby girl Ron began working at Caterpillar Tech Center as an electrician and moved on to the IT division in East Peoria. After 36 years he retired as an IT analyst. In 1970s while at Cat he started Barr Radio Communication, serving the communication needs of rural municipalities, emergency services, and farmers. Known as “Electron Ron”, he proved there was nothing faster than a Motorola. He also served as one of the last Sworn Sparland Police officers.

He enjoyed piloting his own airplane with many family trips. As an accomplished musician, Ron played guitar with the Echoes and The Other Side Band. You could never keep him away from his favorite store Menards and favorite restaurant Bob Evans. Ron was a member of MRFAC, the American Radio Relay League and the Lacon Sparland United Methodist Church. He will be truly missed by his wife of 56 years, family, and all those he touched through his life.

Ron is survived by his wife Jan of Sparland; his mother Marjorie Barr of Lacon; daughter Wendy (Steve) Carver of Chillicothe; siblings Robert (Kathleen) Barr of West Richland WA, Richard (Terri) Barr of Sellersburg IN, Janel (Brad) Green of Siler City NC; grandchildren Taylor (Jayce Eustice) Kimble of Granville, Dillon Kimble of Chillicothe; and great grandson Owen. He was preceded in death by his father Robert and his nephew Elijah Barr.

Cremation rights have been accorded and there will be no services at this time. Donations in Ron’s name can be made to the Lacon Sparland Ambulance and online condolences can be left at lenzmemorialhome.com