Ronald Gilbert Dibelius

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He will be remembered for his warm smile, abundant enthusiasm, adventurous spirit, and the joy he found in sharing life’s simple pleasures with those he loved.

Ronald Gilbert Dibelius, 88, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2026 in Boise, Idaho. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, coach, and friend to all. He will be remembered for his warm smile, abundant enthusiasm, adventurous spirit, and the joy he found in sharing life’s simple pleasures with those he loved—including hunting, fishing, tennis, and golf.

Ron was born to Norbert Dibelius and Goldie Neitzke on November 3, 1937 in Neenah, Wisconsin. He graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1956 and attended Marquette University before eventually graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh in 1961.

Ron dedicated 27 years of service to Boise State University, where he built lasting friendships and made a meaningful impact on the university community. As the BSU Tennis Coach, he motivated and influenced many young athletes. Later, as Assistant Athletic Director in charge of fundraising, he helped shape the future of BSU Athletics. He was one of the “Founding Fathers” of the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl and instrumental in helping raise funds for the Stueckle Sky Center, the Athletic Hall of Fame, the Boas Tennis Center (The Bubbles), the Appleton Tennis Center, and the Soccer Center.

As a devout Catholic, Ron was also deeply committed to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes where he served on the board and looked for ways to help youth through faith and athletics.

Ron had his own remarkable multi-sport athletic career. He holds the record for the most points scored in a high school basketball game in Wisconsin—76 points without the benefit of a three-point line. He went on to play college basketball for Marquette and the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh where he was drafted to play for the New York Knicks. He also played professional baseball as a shortstop and second baseman for the Washington Senators. He gave it all up to marry the love of his life, Lotus, for a remarkable 64 years.

Ron had a lifelong love of the outdoors. Some of his happiest moments were spent fishing with his beloved wife, Lotus—who always seemed to catch the most fish. He treasured time with his grandchildren and looked forward to bird hunting in the Owyhee Mountains with his faithful dog and a close-knit group of hunting friends. Together, they spent countless days with shotguns in hand, hiking the rugged hills in search of Chukar, creating memories and friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Above all, Ron loved his family. He is survived by his wife, Lotus; his daughter, Karla McNeilly (Husband-Dean McNeilly); his son, Kevin Dibelius (Wife-Pam Dibelius); his stepson, Mike O’Keefe; and many beloved grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his stepsons, Pat O’Keefe and Parry O’Keefe.

One of Ron’s favorite quotes was: "Where there is faith, there is love; where there is love, there is peace with the Lord.”

A celebration of life will take place Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the Allen Noble Hall of Fame. 1910 W University Dr. Boise, Id 83706 at 10 AM

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes or to The Dibelius Family Endowed Scholarship for Tennis at Boise State University would be in keeping with Ron’s wishes.

BAA ENDOWMENT FUND