Ronald "Rink" Mahlum

Ronald “Rink” Mahlum, 74, passed away October 31, 2024, at the North Dakota Veteran’s Home in Lisbon.

Visitation will be held from 12 noon to 1:30 PM on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at Weigel Funeral Home in Mandan. Burial will follow at 2 PM at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery. 

Ronald “Rink” Mahlum the son of Maynard “Whitie” and Betty “Patsy” (Roberg) Mahlum was born August 23, 1950, in Kenmare, ND. He graduated from Kenmare High School in 1969 and enlisted in the US Army, serving during the Vietnam War from May 13, 1970, until December 22, 1971, when he was honorably discharged. 

After returning home, he was likely found on horseback working the ranches of North Dakota, Montana, and New Mexico. The “cowboy life” was his calling. During his time at the Veterans Home, he also acquired the nickname “Cowboy.” Sitting tall in the saddle, his skills were top notch. He once said, “Girl, just get on the damn horse. You’re burning daylight.” 

On March 26, 1979, Rink married Linda Thompson and they were blessed with two children, Rhonda and Tyler. 

Cowboy Is His Name 
There's a hundred years of history
and a hundred before that
All gathered in the thinkin'
Goin' on beneath this hat.

The cold flame burns within him
'Til his skin's as cold as ice
And the dues he paid to get here
Are worth every sacrifice.

All the miles spend sleepy drivin'
All the money down the drain,
All the 'if I's' and 'nearly's,'
All the bandages and pain,

All the female tears left dryin',
All the fever and the fight
Are just a small down payment
On the ride he makes tonight.

It's guts and love and glory,
One mortal's chance at fame.
His legacy is rodeo
And cowboy is his name.

Written by Baxter Black
Poem from the movie 8 Seconds 

While we have lost our Dad, many have lost a brother and friend. With his sarcastic humor and witty timing, to some he may have been a glorious pain in the rear, which I am sure is a small select few. All the miles spent, all the tears and laughs, rowdy boys, and dirty arena floors are just few of the things we hold dear today and always. 

Rink leaves behind his daughter, Rhonda (Jim) Schwartzbauer of Mandan, ND; son, Tyler Mahlum of Kenmare, ND; grandchildren, Tate, Tucker, Riley, and Hayes Schwartzbauer; brother, Mark Mahlum of Bismarck, ND; as well as his "adopted brothers", the Hanson family, Herm (Paula), Greg (Tami), Mike, and Shannon (Jennifer); and their families; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

Rink was preceded in death by his parents; his stepdad, Roland Delong; and "adopted parents", Bob and Lila Hanson.