Ronald Glen Joens, “Ron” was born on May 19, 1947, to Glen and Alvena Joens in Dupree, South Dakota. He spent most of his childhood in Eagle Butte. Although he only completed school through the eighth grade, that never stopped him from learning valuable skills through hard work and life experience.

On June 25, 1967, Ron married Judy Vansickel in Faith, South Dakota. Not long after, they welcomed their only son, Edward, and moved back to Sturgis, where they lived until 1974. They later moved to Black Hawk before purchasing land near Summerset in 1996, where Ron spent the remainder of his life until he was called home on Saturday, May 9, 2026.

In 1974, Ron began working for Rapid Plumbing under Clarence, who took Ron under his wing and taught him everything he knew. Clarence even bought Ron a backhoe, which Ron operated for the rest of his life. When he eventually left Rapid Plumbing, he brought the backhoe home with him.

Ron spent most of his life working in construction and doing odd jobs for people throughout the area. He later established his own business, RG Joens Construction, which he operated until retiring at the age of 75. Truthfully, though, Ron never really retired. He loved working on his equipment and garden tractors and was always willing to lend a helping hand to neighbors or anyone in need. Ron also enjoyed visiting with neighbors and talking with people he met at Walmart on weekends. It often seemed there was never anyone he didn’t know.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Glen and Alvena Joens; his son, Edward Joens; his sister, Babe Gage; and his brothers, Boyd, Les, and Ben Joens. He was also preceded in death by his father-in-law, Charles Vansickel; brother-in-law, Merle Vansickel; and sister-in-law, Janet Vansickel.

He is survived by his wife, Judy Joens; his grandchildren, Donald, Heather, and Jessica Joens; his sisters, Golda and Gwen Vogt; his brothers, Kenny, Mick, and Larry Joens; his mother-in-law, Hazel Vansickel; and his brother-in-law, Chuck Vansickel. Ron also held a special place in his heart for Don Konechne, his favorite neighbor and a very special friend, as well as Kal’s son, Braxton, whom Ron loved watching play.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Kinkade Funeral Chapel. Funeral services will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Kinkade Funeral Chapel with Rev. Harold Delbridge officiating. Burial will follow at Bear Butte Cemetery. A luncheon will be held afterward at the Sturgis VFW.

A memorial has been established, and condolences may be sent to Judy Joens at 6512 Anderson Rd., Black Hawk, SD 57718.