Ronald Alfred Schumacher's Obituary
Big Rapids - Ronald A. Schumacher, 75, of Big Rapids, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 22, 2023, at his home in Green Township surrounded by loving family members.
He was born May 10, 1948, in Ferndale, the son of Alfred and Geraldine (Green) Schumacher, and graduated from Reed City High School in 1966. Ron then served his country during the Vietnam War in the U. S. Army.
Following his honorable discharge, Ron returned to the area, and worked for Cousineau Gravel for several years. He went on to earn his B.S. Degree in Environmental Health from Ferris State College, and worked for District Health Department #10 for over 20 years, retiring as Environmental Health Director.
Ron served the Wheatland Music Organization as their sanitation infrastructure consultant, and was a member of the State of Michigan and local Emergency Management Teams. He was also a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church, and the Reed City Masonic Lodge. He was involved in the Mecosta County 4H Horse program and loved supporting his daughters and grandchildren in all of their sports and recreational activities. Ron made the annual trip for the Memphis in May World BBQ Competition (with much success!), and loved vacationing in Cozumel with family. An avid hunter and fisherman, Ron also enjoyed a good game of volleyball, and working on Jeeps was also a passion.
Ron is survived by his three daughters, Heather Schumacher (Vito Pugliese), Emily (Joshua) Theunick, and Rachel (Dustin) Vodry; four beloved grandchildren, Elsa Mae, Callie, Coralynn, and Kade; his former wife Elaine Cousineau; his brother John (Kaye); two sisters, Bonnie (Bill) Fewox, and Connie (Ron) Schwass; and several nieces and nephews. Ron was also preceded in death by his parents and brothers Tom and Lonnie.
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Big Rapids, with Pastor Tyson Benz officiating. Private burial will be in the Curtice Cemetery. Ron's family will greet friends at the Mohnke Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 30, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m., and after 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday at the church. Memorial contributions in his name may be made for St. Peter's Lutheran Church or the Wheatland Music Organization at wheatlandmusic.org. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.
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