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In Memory: Dr. Ronnie Sturm (PU DVM ’69)

A Purdue Veterinary Medicine alumnus in the Class of 1969, Dr. Ronnie R. Sturm passed away December 19, 2023 at IU Health Arnett Hospital in Lafayette, Indiana. He was 79.

Dr. Ronnie Sturm portrait

Born in Clinton, Indiana, Dr. Sturm attended Clinton High School and after graduation enrolled at Purdue University, earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1969. He then served as a veterinarian for 48 years before retiring. He was skilled in swine medicine and general veterinary practice, and his work history included serving several years with the USDA Food Safety Inspection Service supervising lay food safety inspection employees at Indiana Packers in Delphi, Indiana. Additionally, he was promoted to an Enforcement Investigative Analysis Officer (EIAO) position.

A devoted husband and father, Dr. Sturm loved spending time with his family and enjoyed fishing, hunting, mushroom hunting, antique cars, and boating. He also was known as an avid Purdue sports fan.

A visitation and funeral service was held December 22 at Soller-Baker Funeral Homes Lafayette Chapel. Burial followed the same day at Bono Cemetery in Dana, Indiana.

Click here to view a complete obituary and to leave a message or share a memory.

Writer(s): Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu

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