Ronald John Behnken

Ronald John Behnken, 89, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Monday, May 12, 2025, at home surrounded by his family. A Celebration of Life for Ronald and Janice will take place at a later date. Private family burial will take place at Oakland Cemetery. Bohnenkamp-Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Manchester has assisted the family.

Ronald was born on March 27, 1936, in Monticello, Iowa, the son of John and Elda (Herren) Behnken. He graduated from Manchester High School in 1954. On March 29, 1957, Ronald was united in marriage to Janice Renfrow at the Manchester United Methodist Church. Ron was a welder and later a sales repairman for Henderson Products in Manchester for 40 years.

Ron enjoyed gardening and had knowledge of a master gardener, known for his tomatoes, canning and sharing his harvest and also had a knack for growing Asiatic Lilies. He was a self-appointed “greeter” for the Manchester Farmers’ Market and Bushel & a Peck. He loved classic cars, collected Ertl replica toys and was a self-taught mechanic and could fix anything. Ron would spend time with his friends and family watching Iowa sports, he will be missed by all those who know and loved him.

Ron is survived by his two sons, Jon (Connie) Behnken of Manchester, and Jeff Behnken of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; two grandchildren, Jessie (Jay) Watson, and Justin Behnken; three great-grandchildren, Everly and Miles Watson, and April Behnken; his brother, Richard Behnken of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; niece, Christine (Mando) Silva; nephew, Kelly Behnken; and his faithful companion lap dog, Mocha.

He was preceded by his parents, John and Elda Behnken; and his wife Janice Behnken in 2024.

The family would like to thank Care Initiatives Hospice for the support that was given to Ron and his family. A very special thank you to Tammy, Kheem, Christina, and Lauryn for their loving care during this time.

Memorials in Ron’s memory may be directed to Care Initiatives Hospice in Manchester.