Ronald H. Ketcham, 81, of Keokuk, IA, passed away Friday, February
28, 2025 at the SE Regional Medical Center in Ft. Madison, IA after a
long illness.
Ron was born February 14, 1944 in Keokuk, IA to Harold R and Leota J.
Ketcham.
After graduating Hamilton High School and excelling in basketball, he went
to work in his father’s business delivering tractors. With his gift for gab,
Ron was soon hired to work in sales for the Sheaffer Pen Company. In the
70’s, he began working in the motorcycle and automobile industry, having a
love for dirt bikes and cars. As a weekend hobby, Ron raced Mustangs and
rode Yamaha, Suzuki and Hodaka dirt bikes with his son. In 1985, he was a
partner in a petroleum extraction business named HYPEX. In 1988, Ron
began his ultimate career in the automotive detailing business, traveling to
many countries to work with the large auto makers. This earned him an
induction into the International Detailing Association Hall of Fame in
January 2023.
Ron retired from work in 2008. NASCAR, F1 racing, and golf were some of
the many things he enjoyed. Being a wine connoisseur, he liked having his
friends stop by for a visit in “Grumpy’s Pub”. He also enjoyed talking shop
with the members of Keokuk Cars and Coffee.
Ron is survived by his son, Frank “Rocky” Ketcham (Teresa) of High
Springs, FL, two grandchildren, Lacey Nieves (Victor) of High Springs, FL
and Garrett Ketcham (Lily) of Gainesville, FL, one great grandson, DJ
Nieves, and niece Kelly Springett of Lee’s Summit, MO. He was preceded
in death by his parents, Harold R and Leota J Ketcham, and his sisters
Lucinda Ketcham and Linda Springett.
As a member of the Keokuk Yacht Club (with many members as friends),
there will be a Celebration of Life for Ron there, 2029 River Road, in
Keokuk, IA on March 29, 2025, from 5-8 pm.