Ronald "Ronnie" D. Norling III

Ronald Duane Norling III, known as “Little Ronnie” to his aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents and “Ronnie” to his siblings, passed away in May 2026 at the age of 40.

Ronnie was born on December 3, 1985, and grew up along I-29, with his heart always rooted north of Grand Forks, where he spent much of his time with his grandparents, Connie and Ronnie. He loved being with them, and it brings comfort to know he is with them again.

Ronnie was known for his quiet wit and sharp mind. He had a way of seeing things others didn’t and delivering the perfect line at exactly the right moment—often leaving everyone around him laughing harder than they expected. He didn’t need to be loud to be the funniest person in the room.

From a young age, Ronnie was incredibly intelligent—sharp as a tack—and carried that awareness with him throughout his life. He was also deeply caring, especially toward his younger siblings, always looking out for them in his own way. From childhood into recent years, he and his sister shared a bond that never really needed explaining—Megan was his rock.

Ronnie loved being around his friends and family, even if being in a crowd sometimes made him uncomfortable. He loved being included, and even when he was quiet, he wanted to experience life fully—with honesty and humor. He was humble. He was brilliant. He was a good friend, and the best brother.

When he was a kid, Ronnie loved fishing with his Dad, Ron Jr. and Grandpa Ron Sr., and spending time with his Grandpa Donnie in his woodshop. He had the most fun with his friends in high school, his cousins Zach and Tanner, and his family.

In his later years, Ronnie’s heart belonged to his cats, Mabel and Cheesecake. Mabel, who he rescued after she had been abandoned, was truly his companion. They adored each other, and their bond was unmistakable.

Ronnie had exceptional taste in music, favoring classic rock that you didn’t hear on repeat. Some of his favorite songs included “Helplessly Hoping” by Crosby, Stills, & Nash and “Friday Night” by Tim Robinson. He loved hacky sack, skateboarding, watching The Office, making supper and playing video games with his best buddy, Ben, and teasing his niece, Lily.

He loved deeply—his Dad and Mom, his siblings, his Aunty Sheri and Uncle Alex, his niece Lily, his brother-in-law, Tyler, but especially his cats, Cheesecake Duane and Mabel Murphy.

Ronnie brought light to his family in a way that can’t be replaced. He will be remembered for his humor, his intelligence, his loyalty, and the way he made people feel.

He is deeply missed.