A Devastating Loss: Remembering Ron Strege’s Heartfelt Impact

The communities of Marshfield, Wisconsin, and Winona State University are grieving the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Ron Strege, a man whose life was defined by service, compassion, and unwavering commitment to student success. As Chief Student Affairs Officer and Director of the Warrior Success Center, Ron wasn’t just a leader — he was a mentor, a motivator, and a guiding light to thousands of students navigating their academic journeys.

Ron’s unexpected passing has sent shockwaves through the campus and beyond. Tributes have poured in from students, faculty, colleagues, and community members who all describe him in the same way: deeply caring, endlessly encouraging, and passionately dedicated to making education accessible and meaningful for every student. His door was always open, and his heart was always bigger than the room.

 Champion for Students, Leader for Change

Throughout his career, Ron was a champion for equity, inclusion, and student empowerment. Under his leadership at the Warrior Success Center, countless students found the resources, guidance, and confidence they needed to thrive. He made it his mission to not only help students succeed academically but to grow personally — believing that higher education should uplift the whole person.

Ron was instrumental in developing programs that bridged the gap for first-generation college students, underrepresented populations, and those struggling to find their place on campus. His colleagues remember him as a forward-thinking, compassionate advocate who believed deeply in the power of human connection. He was a voice for those who often went unheard — and his loss is being felt across generations of students and staff who leaned on his wisdom and care.

A Legacy of Love, Laughter, and Lifelong Learning

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ron was known for his warm smile, quick wit, and the genuine relationships he built wherever he went. He had a way of making people feel seen, valued, and important — whether you were a freshman on your first day or a colleague walking into another meeting. He embodied everything good about education: the belief that people matter most.

As friends, family, and the university community mourn this profound loss, plans are being made to celebrate Ron’s life and legacy in the coming weeks. In the meantime, those who knew and loved him are encouraged to share memories, support one another, and continue the important work he dedicated his life to — empowering others.

Ron Strege’s presence cannot be replaced, but his spirit will continue to live on in every student who found their voice because of him, in every program he helped build, and in every life he touched with his quiet strength and open heart.

May he rest in peace. May his memory continue to inspire.