Ronald Schlafmann, 86, of Turtle Lake, died on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at his residence. A private family service will be held. Burial will be in Turtle Lake Cemetery.

Ronald “Ronnie” Schlafmann was born on July 9, 1939, in Turtle Lake, ND, to William and Helen (Westerlind) Schlafmann. He was raised on the family farm south of Turtle Lake and graduated from Turtle Lake High School in 1957.

After graduation, Ron attended Humboldt Institute in Minneapolis. Before long, he realized his heart belonged to farming and returned home to work the land he loved with his dad.

In 1959, he married Joanne Sundby. Together they welcomed five children and raised them on the same family farm where Ron had grown up. Ron farmed and ranched on the home place for 51 years before handing the reins over to his son, Nick, and grandson, Blair. He was especially proud that the farm is now in its fifth generation of Schlafmanns working the land.

Ron’s love for anything old led him to a lifelong passion for buying, selling, and collecting antique tractors. He shared this interest with his uncle, Lloyd Westerlind, and through this hobby they built and maintained many lasting friendships over the years.

Ron spent his golden years on the farm, surrounded by his many four-legged companions, who brought him great comfort. His wish was to remain on the farm for as long as he lived, and his family is deeply grateful that this wish was fulfilled.

Ronnie is survived by his children: Stephanie “Tess” Zinke (Steve), Nicholas Schlafmann, Susanne (Frank) Vetsch, Stacey (Jerry) Bushey, and Jay (Sheila) Schlafmann.

He was a proud grandfather to Brook (Melanie) Schlafmann, Blair (Andrea) Schlafmann, Leslie (Andy) Koedam, Grant (Emily) Zinke, Mark (Stephanie) Zinke, Carter, Hannah, and Addison Bushey, and Vivian and Helen Schlafmann; and was blessed with 14 great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his sister, Lorie Schlafmann; his brother, Wayne (Susan) Schlafmann; and his nieces and nephews.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Caryl Hieb, and brother-in-law Ron Hieb.

We are certain that our dad is celebrating in Heaven with the great, lifelong friends who went before him!