Ronald Leon Fate

Ron was a gentle man who met everyone with a smile. He was a kind and gracious spirit who will be deeply missed by all he held close. Ron was strong in his faith and enjoyed spending time with his church family. He was a parishioner of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church of Grand Rapids for over 50 years, where he established meaningful and special friendships with many. Ron loved cowboy shows and Hallmark movies. He fulfilled his cowboy dreams by riding Razz, at The Equest Center. He enjoyed making model cars and airplanes and spending time in his garden. He often grew more tomato and peppers to give away than he did for himself. Ron loved chocolate. He gifted boxes of Russell Stover chocolates to friends for birthdays, Easter, and Christmas. If he wasn't with his church family, he was regularly found talking and watching the world go by with his neighbor and 'brother by choice' Craig. Since his mother passed, Ron has been supported and loved by his good friend Jody and others. Sharing laughs, holidays, and many afternoons, Ron and Jody brought so much light into each other's lives.

Ron worked at Ferguson Hospital for 25 years and then he continued to provide his talents to Blessed Sacrament school until he retired. He was known as Mister Ron by the students and staff.

Ron was a gentle soul and a wonderful man. His absence will be deeply felt by his church family and all who knew him.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Virginia Fate.

Ron is survived by his entire Blessed Sacrament Parish family; as well as Henry & Janet Rozmarek, Joyce & Lee LaFleur, James and Cindy Rozmarek and other cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 6, 2024 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 2275 Diamond Ave NE. Guests are welcome to enjoy an hour of visiting before the start of mass, also at the church. Ron will be laid to rest at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Equest Center for Therapeutic Riding, 3777 Rector Ave NE, Rockford, MI 49341.