John M Ronan

John was born in Rumford to John R "Jack" Ronan and Theresa (Boudreaux) Ronan on April 2,1962. He had fond memories of growing up on Penobscot Street and spending time at the family camp on Worthley Pond in Peru. John graduated from Rumford High School and studied accounting at Husson University in Bangor, ME. Soon after departing from campus, John started his own company: John M. Ronan Professional Painting and Drywall. It was in his trade that John found his rhythym and his peace. He was born to mud walls and was a master at his craft.

If there were to be one word to sum up a life, John's word would be HEART. He put his into everything that held meaning for him: his children, his fiancee, his work, Home Depot, his trucks. He would give of himself until there was nothing left to give and then give a little bit more. John never met a stranger. He was a friend to all he knew. He had an infectious smile that flashed without reserve, a kind and cheerful 'Hey, there!" that brightened your day, and a slightly botched punchline to every joke he told. John had a close personal relationship with God and he turned to Him often to lighten his load when the outside world became more than he could stand. He was passionate about politics and would give his full effort to help you see things his way. He loved the ocean and would often be found there telling anyone who was near how beautiful it was. He loved to eat. He really, really loved to eat. John was adamant a meal wasn't complete without dessert and dessert should be shared with the ones you love. He carried treats in his pocket for every dog that greeted him. He let a cat move in because it wanted to. He made peanut butter toast for the squirrels beneath his deck. John was kind. He was good. He was boundlessly loved. And he will be forever deeply and profoundly missed. He was heart. And without him, our hearts will never be the same.

John is survived by his fiancee, Lori Bretz of Peru; his son Joshua Ronan and wife Kassi of Auburn; his daughter Jeana Ronan of Rumford, his son Noah Ronan of Rumford, his brother Dennis Ronan and wife Kathleen of Auburn, his brother Linwood Ronan and wife Jackie of Rumford, his sister Pamela Jacobs of Augusta, and many nieces and nephews. He had a special bond with his niece April Benedix-Pinard of Livermore. He was also the very proud grandpa of Sloane Ronan and her much anticipated baby sister.

John was predeceased by his parents, his sister Ellen Benedix of Livermore, and his beloved dogs Lady and Cubby.

We would like to thank everyone for their outpouring of love and support.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to: Greater Androscoggin Humane Society.