Ronald William Mohnke's Obituary
Big Rapids Ronald William Mohnke, 72, long-time local funeral director, went home to be with Jesus on Monday, November 22, 2010. He died on his farm at Hungerford Lake after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born December 4, 1937, in St. Johns, Michigan, the son of Herman and Rosina (Martens) Mohnke, and graduated from St. Johns High School in 1955. Ron was preparing to attend seminary to become a Lutheran Minister, but just several weeks prior to his graduation, a tragic accident occurred that changed his life. Rons father and older brother Herman were struck and killed by lightening while farming, postponing his plans. The local funeral director became his mentor and Ron decided that his faith could help others as they prepare to leave this world for the glory of Christ. Ron became a directors apprentice in Lansing while attending Michigan State University, and in 1960, he graduated from the Wayne State School of Mortuary Science.? After working at the Brown Funeral Home in Flint and Howe-Peterson in Dearborn, Ron moved to Big Rapids in 1972 to purchase the Rogers Funeral Home. Ron became only the third owner of the business since 1916. This spring, Ron was recognized for 50 years of service in the funeral industry at the annual Michigan Funeral Directors Association conference. He was recently honored with the Mecosta County Medical Center Foundations "Northern Lights Award for Lifetime Achievement". Ron was a devout Christian, and sought to serve his Lord and Savior in all that he did. He was a long-time, active member of St. Peters Lutheran Church, where he served in various capacities. Ron was a founding member and trustee of the Big Rapids Area (now Mecosta County) Community Foundation, a member of the Big Rapids Lions Club, the FSU Bulldog Club, and participated in various bowling and golf leagues. On August 31, 1957, Ron married Carol L. King, who preceded him in death on February 9, 2002. On August 25, 2005, he married Renee Bordano who survives. Also surviving are his five children, Melissa (Paul) Athmann of Lowell, Michael of Big Rapids, Mindy (Bob) Grunst of Big Rapids, Marie (Todd) Rickard of Allendale and Martin (Marlene) of Big Rapids; 2 step-children, Steve (Becca) Nanasi of Big Rapids and Jenn Nanasi of Grand Rapids, 31 grandchildren; 2 sisters, Mary (Larry) Grennell of St. Johns and Sandy (Dave) Lockwood of DeWitt; his brother, Rex (Tracy) of St. Johns; his mother-in-law, Doris Bordano of Big Rapids; his aunt, Doris Mohnke of St. Johns, in-laws, Ilse King, Jane King, Mary (John) Fernadez, and Dave (Amy) Bordano; several nieces, nephews, cousins; and many close and dear friends. Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 27, 2010 at St. Peters Lutheran Church in Big Rapids with Pastor John Bookshaw officiating. Burial will be in the Hungerford Cemetery in Norwich Township. Rons family will greet friends on Thursday, November 25th from 6-8 p.m. at the Mohnke Funeral Home, on Friday, November 26th from 2-8 p.m. at St. Peters, and prior to service on Saturday. Rons family asks to consider memorial contributions for St. Peters Lutheran Church or the Mecosta County Community Foundation, with envelopes available at the Church or funeral home.
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