Ronald Wohlert

Ronald August Wohlert, 83, former resident of Lapwai, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025, and was welcomed into the arms of his Savior. Born on Sept. 3, 1941, in La Crosse, Wis., Ron grew up on his family’s farm with three siblings in La Crescent, Minn., where he developed a strong work ethic and a competitive streak, especially when playing cards.

At age 18, Ron enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving honorably for four years before his discharge. That same year, he married and welcomed two children, Shane and Kimberly. Divorcing in 1968, Ron married Judy Kay Lyons in 1971, becoming a devoted father figure to her daughter, Rachel Walsh, and later welcoming their son, Matthew Wohlert, in 1973. Ron and Judy settled in the Boise area until 1980, when Ron pursued his calling to ministry by enrolling in seminary school in Hillsboro, Mo. He graduated with honors in 1983, earning a Bachelor of Divinity degree.

Upon returning to Boise, Ron and his family remained there until 1992, when they relocated to the Lapwai area. They resided there until Judy’s passing in 2023. In 2024, Ron moved to Star, Idaho, to live with his son Shane.

A man of unwavering faith, Ron prayed daily for his family, friends, community, country, and the nation of Israel. From 1995 to 2024, he shared his passion for ministry, preaching in numerous churches throughout northern Idaho, touching many lives with his heartfelt sermons and commitment to the gospel.

An avid golfer, Ron achieved the remarkable feat of scoring three holes-in-one during his lifetime. He had a sweet tooth, particularly for bakery treats, and never passed up a slice of pie. A loyal sports enthusiast, Ron cheered fervently for Boise State Football, the Green Bay Packers and the Lapwai Wildcats.

Ron and his wife Judy served alongside the Nez Perce people for nearly three decades. They were members of the Chief Joseph and Warriors Memorial Pow Wow Committee; members of the Prayer Warriors group; and attended and supported the Nez Perce Presbyterian Churches and the Methodist Church. They attended Nez Perce Language classes at Lewis Clark State College and enjoyed singing the Nez Perce hymns in the Nez Perce churches and at the annual Talmaks Camp Meeting. They loved the Nez Perce language and the Nimiipuu and they were always determined to reside on the Nez Perce reservation. They first lived the Nimiipuu homelands in Joseph, Oregon, before living in Cottonwood Creek and then Lapwai.

He is survived by his three children, Shane Wohlert, Kimberly Brands, and Matthew Wohlert; his stepdaughter, Rachel Walsh; 10 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judy Kay Wohlert.

Ron’s legacy of being an intercessory prayer warrior will be remembered by those who knew him best. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 29, at Pi-Nee-Waus Community Center, 504 Main St. S., Lapwai followed by interment at Spalding Cemetery, with lunch and refreshments thereafter at the Pi-Nee-Waus.