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Ronnie Smith
Ronnie Denis Smith passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Friday, June 14, 2024, at the age of 84. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Susan, who passed away just three months earlier. Ron and Sue shared a remarkable 65 years of marriage, exemplifying unwavering love, dedication, and companionship.
Ron was born on February 15, 1940 to Claud and Bessie Smith in Morton, Arkansas. In 1957, he joined the United States Coast Guard where he served honorably. Ron met Susan while he was stationed in Sault Saint Marie, Michigan. Young and in love, they were eager to start their lives together and married on December 13, 1958.
After serving in the United States Coast Guard, Ron built a career operating heavy equipment. This profession led him across the country to projects like the Alaskan oil pipeline, the Ludington Pump Storage project, and countless highway projects in Michigan. He retired from the Operating Engineers Local 324 in 1996 and enjoyed a long retirement. At the start of his retirement, he planned and constructed Vacation Station RV Park. He was proud to have built the RV park from the ground up alongside his family and to see the joy that it brought to the other families that vacationed there.
As Ron got older he spent most of his time at home with his wife, watching western movies, and reading political biographies. Ron was often found driving around town in his Riviera, with a gas station coffee and lottery ticket. He was an incredibly proud dad and grandfather and was always checking in on his kid’s houses and “the shop”. Ron felt very blessed to watch his six grandchildren grow up nearby and treasured daily visits from his family. He will be remembered for his unwavering support, motivation, and hilarious and creative sayings and advice.
He is survived by his children: Karen and Ken Fles, Jeffrey Smith, Gerald and Diane Smith, Kevin and Meryl Smith; grandchildren: Nathaniel Smith and Anna Epstein, Lauren and Chris Sawson, Guy Smith, Marianna Smith Mutabchi and Rawaz Mutabchi, Evan Smith, and Sawyer Smith; great-grandchildren: Jeremiah Epstein, Evelyn Epstein, and Cohen Sawson;
Siblings: Judy Collins, Phyllis and Mike Schmansky, Fred and Barb Smith, Jimmie Stout; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Claud Smith Jr., Benny Smith, and Gerine Severn; and his cherished wife of 65 years, Susan.
The family would like to thank Hospice of Mason County and Eldercare and Transport for the excellent care and support.
The family will be hosting a private memorial at Ron’s request. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Mason County.
Arrangements were entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington, www.OakGroveLudington.com.
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