Ron and Janet were involved in an ATV accident while on vacation in Tennessee on 10/18/2024. Ron did not survive his injuries but our understanding is that he held on long enough to provide important information to the first responders such as his name, his phone passcode, and to call Sam and Michelle. We truly believe that in typical Ron fashion that was his way of making sure Janet was cared for as quickly as possible. Janet was eventually taken down the mountain via ATV and then air lifted out. She suffered a number of serious injuries including traumatic brain injury, several broken ribs, partial collapsed lung, spinal fractures, orbital fracture and several lacerations and bruises resulting in an extended hospital stay at UT Knoxville Hospital. It’s truly a miracle that she survived.

We are trying to help their family by raising money while they navigate this heartbreaking event. Raising money for things like transporting Janet back to MN for the rest of her treatment as well as her medical bills, funeral expenses for Ron, and miscellaneous costs for Michelle and Sam as they help Janet recover in TN while still needing to provide for their families back home.

Our family shares so many special memories ATVing together for the last 20+ years and it was a hobby that Ron deeply enjoyed. In saying this, we want to share a reminder with everyone to PLEASE wear your seatbelts and helmets when participating in any recreational activity. Accidents happen and this situation could have had a different outcome if seatbelts and helmets were worn.

Our family greatly appreciates the prayers and support that’s been received thus far. Please continue to pray for the Cardinal family and keep them close to your hearts and minds in the coming weeks.

My mother, and Ron's sister, Lynn Schlagel, will be the recipient of these funds to help manage the expenses for the family.