Ronald H. Irlbeck, age 76, passed away on Monday, September 22, 2014, at his home in Mossy Head, Florida. He was born on a farm near Manning, Iowa, on November 29, 1937, and graduated from Manning High School in 1955.

Ron served in the United States Air Force from 1955-1959 during which time he met and married Catherine, his devoted wife of 56 years. He was a graduate of the University of West Florida, eventually working as a software engineer and government contractor for several decades.

He was a resident of Okaloosa County for over 50 years and was a world traveler who took on defense projects that ensured our Country's safety. He took great pride in his work on the Amraam Missile System. He was an active member of Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church where he was a founding member of the Knights of Columbus Council #7968 and later instituted the Sunday night Rosary group at O.L.V. which he led faithfully for 26 years.

In the mid-1980s he played an integral part in moving the original church building from its former location to its current home at 550 Adams Drive. Mr. Irlbeck was a well-known Allis Chalmers Tractor enthusiast with a passion for collecting and restoring antique farm machinery, tractors and farm toys. He was a wonderful and loyal husband, father and grandfather who will be profoundly missed by his family and friends.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Anselm and Wilhelmina (Steffes) Irlbeck, his brother Floyd Irlbeck, his daughter Angie Irlbeck, and twin infant sons.

Ron is survived by his wife Catherine Irlbeck; sons, Ronald Irlbeck Jr., and Craig Irlbeck; daughter, Lori Irlbeck; brother, Merlyn Irlbeck; sisters, Patricia Loats, Elaine Dammann, and Joyce Nelson. Also many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A time of visitation was held Monday, September 29, 2014, from 5:00-7:00 pm at Whitehurst-Powell Funeral Home. Funeral Services were held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, September 30, 2014, at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church in Crestview. Arrangements are entrusted to Whitehurst Powell Funeral Home in Crestview. Guestbook and condolences are available online at www.whitehurstpowellfuneralhome.com