Ronald E. “Ron” VanLaningham, 71, of rural Bloomfield, Iowa passed away September 24, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa. He was born to Carlos E. and Donna Darlene Sedore VanLaningham at the Air Force base in Tucson, Arizona. He was raised in Fairfield, Iowa and attended Fairfield High School. He married Sherri Smith in Cantril, Iowa and they had four children. They later divorced.
In his youth, Ron enjoyed working on his Uncle Ike’s farm. He later did some farming of his own and raised hogs. He was an over-the-road truck driver/mechanic for about 15 years. Ron was a talented woodworker and enjoyed refinishing antiques, was an avid gardener, and a darn good cook. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
He is survived by his loving companion of 22 years, Karen Kittrell; his former wife, Sherri (Smith) Hardin and their four children, Matt (Tonya) VanLaningham of Bloomfield, Leah VanLaningham of Milton, Iowa, Michael VanLaningham of Milton, Iowa, Chris (Julianne) VanLaningham of Orlando, Florida; seven grandchildren, Caden, Cassidy, Claire, Myah, Benjamin, Andrew, Elizabeth; brother, Larry (Susan) VanLaningham of Fairfield, Iowa; two nephews, Jacob, Joshua; and Karen’s sons, Robert and Ryan Seber.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Ron’s wish was to be cremated; no services are planned. Burial will be at the Pulaski Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Ron’s name to the Wounded Warrior Project and may be mailed to: Ron VanLaningham Memorial, Wagler Funeral Home, 304 W. Jefferson St., Bloomfield, Iowa 52537.
