Ronald Dean Kamplain

Ronald Dean Kamplain, of Bridgeport, IL, passed away on April 10, 2023, at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, IN. Born on March 6, 1950, in Robinson, IL, Ron's 73 years were characterized by his unique wit, selfless generosity, and unwavering courage. A veteran of the Vietnam War, Ron witnessed untold atrocities during his time in the U.S. Army but remained resilient and committed to living a fulfilling life-meeting his new daughter, Dorothy Ann, after five long months of waiting overseas.

Throughout his life, Ron found both pleasure and purpose in various occupations, including a stint as a heavy equipment operator, before discovering his love for the open road as a truck driver for Tempco. Though he spent a number of years working at the Marathon Oil refinery, the road called his name once more, and Ron ended his career driving a Prairie Farms truck for Modesitt Trucking Company. Despite the demands of his career, Ron remained active in several organizations - being a proud member of the Lawrenceville VFW and American Legion, the Ainad Shrine, the Lawrence County Shrine Club, and the Bridgeport Assembly of God. A member of the Robinson Masonic Lodge #250, Ron committed himself to journey deeper into the highest principles, teachings, and ideals of the Masonic Craft and did so with the Danville Consistory, becoming a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Freemason.

A true Renaissance man, Ron's interests ranged from attending tractor shows to exploring the open road on top of a motorcycle or one of his various other "toys". He particularly enjoyed exploring all that sunny Bridgeport, IL, had to offer, and would do so riding his golf cart around town, counting cats and churches along the way. With a natural talent for building, Ron crafted everything from shelves to a gazebo, leaving physical reminders of his talent and love in the homes of those he held dear. His loved ones could speak to the man's ever-present jovial spirit. He had the rare ability to turn a simple outing to a restaurant into a memorable experience with his humor, regularly joking with waitstaff in his unique way.

Though he was a private man, Ron's care for others shined through in his life as he quietly assisted anyone in need without wanting recognition. His generous spirit touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on those who knew him. Ron's 73 years will continue to serve as a powerful illustration of generosity, humor, and perseverance. He was a man who, despite his challenges and hardships, left a lasting positive impact on those who crossed his path. May his memory continue to inspire us to face our challenges head-on, helping others along the way, becoming people of real and genuine love.

After all, Ron's love for his family was immense and unwavering. Although he was preceded in death by his parents, Franklin & Jeanette (Reynolds) Kamplain; his sisters, Loretta Tracy, Rosie Dorney, Gail Hall, Louise Melton, and Naydene Sandefer; his brother, Earl Kamplain; and his granddaughter, Tessa Christian, he created countless joyous and cherished memories with his surviving kin. Ron's legacy lives on through his children and their families, including his daughter & son-in-law, Dorothy Ann "D'Ann" & Anthony Christian (Evansville, IN); his sons & daughter-in-law, Caleb Kamplain (Palestine, IL) and Andrew & Christina Kamplain (Newburgh, IN); his grandchildren, Jacob & Jessica Christian, Amy & Neil Forman, Jeremy & Stephanie Christian, Nathan Christian, and Natalie Christian; as well as his great-grandchildren, Noah, Esme, Phoebe, Heidi, Anya, Margaret, Faye, and Luna. Ron's nieces, nephews, and former wives, Doris Caywood (mother of D'Ann) and Pam Kamplain (mother of Caleb and Andrew), also hold cherished memories of his life.

A time of visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 13th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. A funeral service will immediately follow and be held at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. Memorials may be made to the "VFW Transportation Fund", with envelopes available at the funeral home.