(Red Oak) The Montgomery County Memorial Hospital + Clinics (MCMH + Clinics) Board of Trustees is pleased to announce a planned leadership transition following the retirement announcement of current Chief Executive Officer, Ron Kloewer. At its October 29, 2025, meeting, the Board formally accepted Mr. Kloewer’s retirement and approved a transition plan to ensure stability and continued success for the organization.
According to the press release, current Chief Operating Officer Michael O’Neal will assume the role of CEO after a series of steps are completed under a formal succession plan presented to the Board. The MCMH Board of Trustees has instructed its Chairman and Executive Committee to bring transition documents to the November meeting. At that time, the Board intends to formally appoint Mr. O’Neal as CEO Elect. A transition timeline will be provided to the Trustees at the November meeting.
Mr. O’Neal joined MCMH in November 2021 after serving as CEO of George C. Grape Community Hospital in Hamburg, Iowa, for 13 years. His career also includes leadership roles in healthcare administration as Chief Information Officer at Thayer County Health Services in Hebron, Nebraska, for 10 years, service as a United States Marine, and work as a Nebraska State Trooper. He holds an MBA, is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives, and is known for his collaborative leadership style and commitment to rural healthcare. Since joining MCMH in 2021, Mr. O’Neal has served with distinction and meets all the necessary qualifications to be CEO of MCMH.
Mr. Kloewer’s history with MCMH began in 1987 when he oversaw the construction of the “new” hospital facility, a project that shaped the foundation for patient care for decades to come. In 1992, he joined MCMH full-time as Director of Campus Development, leading the addition of the “Doctors’ Office” building and many other facility expansions and upgrades over the years. He also held the positions of Chief Information Officer and Chief Operating Officer before becoming CEO in 2021.
Mr. Kloewer has been a steady and trusted presence at MCMH + Clinics for almost 40 years, guiding the organization through significant growth, technological advancements, and evolving models of care. His knowledge of the organization runs deep, and his unique combination of technical expertise and strategic vision has helped modernize facilities, expand services, and strengthen the hospital’s role as a cornerstone for Montgomery County and a beacon of health for so many.
Most importantly, he has shown a steadfast dedication to people. Both those who rely on MCMH + Clinics for care, and those who make that care possible. Throughout his career, Mr. Kloewer has championed the health and well-being of the community while recognizing that the hospital’s greatest strength lies in its staff. He has invested in their growth, fostered a culture of collaboration, and built partnerships that strengthen both the organization and the communities it serves. Mr. Kloewer will serve as CEO Emeritus until his official retirement in June 2026, providing guidance and support to ensure a smooth transition.
Since becoming CEO in 2021, Mr. Kloewer has prioritized rebuilding community trust, strengthening the hospital’s operations, and ensuring a thoughtful leadership succession plan to guide MCMH into the future. “Serving others has always been at the heart of my work,” Kloewer said. “It has been the privilege of my career, and the honor of my life, to serve the people of Montgomery County and beyond, and to work alongside the incredible staff and providers who give their all every day. Together with our dedicated Board, we have faced challenges, celebrated successes, and built something truly special. As I prepare for retirement, I feel confident leaving this organization in the capable hands of Mike O’Neal and our exceptional leadership team, knowing they will continue to grow, innovate, and provide outstanding care for generations to come.”
“Ron has been a mentor to me and to so many others,” said O’Neal. “He has an extraordinary ability to combine operational knowledge with a deep understanding of what this hospital means to our community. I am grateful for his trust and look forward to building on the strong foundation he has created.”
Board Chair Kevin Cabbage added, “Ron’s leadership has been instrumental in creating the MCMH + Clinics we know today. He has led with integrity, vision, and a genuine care for the people we serve. The Board is confident that Mike will carry forward this same commitment while bringing new energy and ideas to guide us into the future.”
To honor this significant milestone, MCMH will host a Celebration of Leadership on Friday, March 13, 2026, at the Wilson Performing Arts Center. The community is invited to gather to celebrate Mr. Kloewer’s remarkable career, wish him well in retirement, and welcome Mr. O’Neal into the CEO role.
More details about the event will be shared in the coming months.
