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Ronald Lee Gehlbach, 73, of Springfield, died at 9:10 a.m. on Wednesday, February 27, 2013 at Memorial Medical Center.

Ronald was born February 2, 1940, in Lincoln, the son of George and Ella Mae Lane Gehlbach. He was married to Margaret Mary Meyer on April 28, 1974 by Judge Harlington Wood, Jr. in Springfield.

Ronald was a graduate of Lincoln Community High School and Lincoln College. He got his start in the floral industry working for Gullet's Greenhouse in Lincoln. In September 1974 he and Margaret moved to Chicago where they resided until October 2010. While in Chicago they owned and operated an artificial flower shop.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Roger and Norman; and one sister-in-law, Patricia.

Surviving are his wife, Margaret; two brothers, Eugene "Gene" and David; one sister, Donna Fuller; two sisters-in-law, Jenni and Rosie; and his dog, Maggie.

Cremation will be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies.

Memorial Gathering: The family will receive friends from 5:00-8:00 p.m. on Friday, March 1, 2013 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.

Memorial Ceremony: The family will host a memorial ceremony at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 2, 2013 at St. John's United Church of Christ, 204 7th Street, Lincoln.

Memorial Contributions may be made to: St. John's UCC, 204 7th St., Lincoln, IL 62656 or Memorial Medical Center Foundation, 701 N. 1st St., Springfield, IL 62702.

Please visit butlerfuneralhomes.com to offer your condolences.