Fundraisers

Ron Giampaolo Memorial

Jan 16, 2012 • Illinois

Ron Giampaolo was born January 29, 1944 to Elmer and Mary (Birsa) Giampaolo in Joliet, Illinois. After graduating high school and enlisting in the army, he worked as a heavy machinery mechanic. Ron loved cars and engines of all kinds. Among the many kinds of cars Ron owned and restored are MG convertibles, classic cars, and he even owned and raced midget race cars on the UARA circuit.

Ron married Joann Doyle, a teacher, on August 3, 1968. They have five children: Betsy (Brian) Dobczyk, Jeff (Gwen), Julie (Dave Daugherty), Jill (Brandon) Brenczewski and Mike (Erin). They also have twelve grandchildren: Caitlin, Emily, Casey, and Brett Dobczyk; Sophia and Maddie Giampaolo; Cameron, Gabby and Addie Daugherty; and Olivia, Alaina and Lila Brenczewski.

Fifteen months ago, Ron was diagnosed with soft tissue sarcoma of the left leg. He went through radiation and several surgeries and was cancer-free for several months. The cancer spread to his lungs in summer 2011, and after courageously undergoing many more treatments to slow the progression of his disease, Ron was finally at peace on January 16, 2012. Ron's beloved wife Joann was constantly by his side and gave him unwavering love and support throughout. As Ron battled this aggressive cancer, he did so with dignity, humor and incredible strength.



To honor Ron's fighting spirit, his family is planning a silent auction and fundraising event called Ronny Gras, with 100% of the proceeds going to The Sarcoma Foundation to fund research on this rare and aggressive form of cancer.

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