Ronald L. Crowder

Ronald L. Crowder, 89, of Covington, Indiana, passed away on September 21, 2026, at Franciscan Health in Lafayette, Indiana.

Ronald was born on January 13, 1937, to Leroy Crowder and Mildred (Oblinger) Crowder, who preceded him in death.

Ronald lived a life rooted in faith, family, community, and agriculture. A 1955 graduate of Perrysville High School, he devoted much of his life to farming and was well known throughout the area for his love of restoring tractors and preserving local history. He was a proud member of the Wabash Valley Tractor Club and could often be found sharing stories from the past with anyone willing to listen, especially his grandchildren.

On July 1, 1956, Ronald married the love of his life, Sonna (Turner) Crowder, at Wabash Chapel in Covington. This year, they celebrated the remarkable milestone of their 70th wedding anniversary, a testament to their enduring love and devotion. Ronald was deeply committed to serving his community. He was a trustee of Wabash Chapel Church, an advisor for Wabash Township, and served on the Board of Coal Creek Cemetery. He dedicated ten years to the Covington School Board and was a proud member of the Masonic fraternity for more than 50 years. Through each role, Ronald worked tirelessly to better his community and leave a lasting impact on future generations.

Above all else, Ronald loved his family. He cherished every opportunity to spend time with them, tell stories, share wisdom, and create lasting memories. His family was the center of his life and his greatest source of pride.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Sonna Crowder; his children, Douglas Crowder, Cary (Penny) Crowder, Bart (Karen) Crowder, and Eric (Sherri) Crowder; his grandchildren, Rashelle (Eric) Howe, Aaron Crowder, Nathan (Michelle) Crowder, Cody (Amie) Crowder, Kala (Jake) Chambliss, Bradi (Matthew) Whitfield, Remington Crowder, Austin Crowder, Ethan Crowder, Christina Crowder, Hannah Crowder, Lena (Brandon) Kiger, Cody (Alisha) Payne, and Scott Payne; his great-grandchildren, Brandon (Sarah) Howe, Clayton Moss, Kaleb Howe, Silas Crowder, Teddy Crowder, Elsie Crowder, Heston Crowder, Lillian Crowder, Marki Chambliss, Micah Chambliss, Locklin Whitfield, Kyra Kiger, Braelynn Kiger, Draxtyn Kiger, Aizley Kiger, Kinzleigh Ramely, Lydia Payne, Sylis Payne, and Dallas Payne; and his great-great-granddaughter, Ruthie Howe.

Ronald also leaves behind his longtime best friend, Charles Shaw Jr., along with many extended family members, friends, neighbors, and fellow community members who will miss his friendship, wisdom, and storytelling.

In his spare time, Ronald enjoyed following Indiana Hoosiers athletics, cheering on the Chicago Cubs, farming, restoring tractors, researching local history, and spending time with those he loved most.

Ronald's legacy of service, faith, hard work, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His stories, laughter, and gentle guidance will be remembered for generations to come.

A Visitation will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. EST at Sunset Funeral Home – Covington Chapel, 420 3rd St., Covington, IN 47932. Masonic rites will be held at 7:00 p.m. Additional visitation will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Coal Creek (Snoddy) Cemetery.

Family and friends are invited to share memories, photos, and videos on Ronald’s Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.