Dr. Ronald Eugene Barone, D.C. May 21, 1944 – April 5, 2026

Dr. Ronald Eugene Barone, D.C., 81, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 5, 2026, Easter Sunday, a fitting and meaningful day for a man whose life was grounded in faith, healing, and the promise of renewal.

Ron was born on May 21, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois, to Joseph and Margaret (Lazzara) Barone. His early years were marked by significant health challenges until his family was introduced to chiropractic care, an experience that profoundly changed his life and set him on the path that would become his life’s calling.

He graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, in 1966 and went on to build a successful and deeply impactful practice in Dyersville, Iowa. Dr. Barone dedicated himself to helping others, not only through physical healing but by guiding many along their broader health and spiritual journeys. He was, at his core, a healer, someone who believed deeply in the body’s ability to heal and the importance of living in alignment with one’s values.

Ron often described himself as an entrepreneur at heart: independent, driven, and, as he would say with a smile, “otherwise unemployable.” He took immense pride in providing for his family and building a life centered on purpose and service to others.

He was a lifelong reader with a deep commitment to personal growth and spirituality. His curiosity, conviction, and strength of character shaped not only his work but the way he lived every day. Even in his final chapter, he faced life with dignity, grace, and unwavering resolve. He was, by nature, strong-willed and determined, a testament to his enduring strength and his commitment to live and leave this life on his own terms.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Nancy (Meyers) Barone of Black Hawk, South Dakota. Married on December 27, 1965, Ron often said it was the happiest day of his life.

He is also survived by his daughter-in-law, Shirley Roelke Barone-Karch; and his children: Tina (Tom) Patrick; Emily (Peter) Battis; Kate (Tony) Scotino; Sarah (Tristan) Emond; Joe (Anna) Barone; and Carrie Barone, and her longtime partner, Brandon Brash.

He was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather to a large and growing family, including Nicholas and Abbey Barone; Dan (Kari) Patrick and their children, Vera and Dominik, with another great-grandchild expected soon; Lucie (Mike) Misfeldt; Ellen (Marcus) West and their daughter, Mable June; Lauren and Owen Battis; Sophie Scotino; and Michael, Seth, Isaiah, and Emily Emond; as well as Hope, Tori, and Addi Barone.

Ron is also survived by his siblings, Sidney (Kathy) Barone, and Deb (Bill) Barone Sheats, and their children, Nathan, Ryan, and Maggie. After the passing of their parents, Deb came to live with Ron and Nancy, and Ron embraced a fatherly role in her life. Following the loss of his brother Phil, Ron also became a guiding father figure to his niece, Maria (Barone) Cobb, in whom he took great pride.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Phil; sister-in-law Jane; and his beloved eldest son, John Paul Barone. John was a constant companion to Ron in his early years, and the two shared a lifelong bond. Ron deeply missed him and looked forward to their reunion.

Ron touched countless lives through his work, his wisdom, and his unwavering desire to help others heal and grow. His legacy lives on not only in the family he cherished, but in the many people whose lives were changed by his care, guidance, and presence.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in Rapid City, South Dakota. Final arrangements will be announced.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the caregivers at Monument Health Hospice for the compassionate and exceptional care they provided to Ron in his final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to a charity of your choice in Ron’s honor.