Ronald Kanaar

Ronald A. Kanaar was a loving husband, caring father and grandfather, whose great successes in life were visible in the people he inspired. He was kind, accepting, and at all times positive. His generosity of heart and hand made life beautiful for those around him. Ronald was born in Muskegon, Michigan to Bert and Eva (Magnuson) Kanaar on May 27, 1928. In the following year, the world would be hit with economic depression. Yet the nations can-do spirit was reflected in Charles Lindberghs solo flight across the ocean, Henry Fords mass production of the automobile, and the Suffrage Movement that won women the right to vote. The times recognized one of its own in Ronald. Amid various challenges, his positive attitude was an attribute that marked his life for eight decades. He served his country as a soldier in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged with the appreciation of a grateful nation. His sense of duty was strong, his desire to protect his fellow citizens was sure, and his conviction to shield his family from harm was indisputable. Ronald was considered the king of optimism, the kind of person who made lemonade out of lemons. His success in business, as owner of the East Muskegon Roofing & Sheet Metal company, brought him recognition from his peers. Ron served as President of the Michigan Sheet Metal Association, President of the Michigan Roofing Association, and he served on the board of General Hospital. Ronalds marriage to Marcia Johnson on October 8, 1976 brought both of them much joy. They loved to dance, especially to wonderful slow dance music, but Rons tastes ranged all the way from Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack to Creedence Clearwater Revival singing Proud Mary. Ron and Marcia were also great travel partners, touring the world together. In fact, it may be easier to name the places Ron didnt visit, than to name the countries he had seen in his lifetime. Ron and Marcia had a cabin up north in Caberfae, MI where many memories were made, especially snowmobiling! Ron would have all his boys and his one grand daughter up for an annual weekend of snowmobiling and steaks on the grill! (2 inch thick steaks at that!!!) Everyone always looked forward to going. Eventually, Ron let his sons buy his business, giving him even more time to travel and to play tennis. Ron and Marcia bought a condo in Naples, Florida on the 23rd floor, overlooking the water and many parts of the state. They kept their home in Michigan so they could be near the children, and grandchildren. Ron loved being a grandparent and was an especially great grandpa!! He taught his grandchildren how to care for things around the house and grounds, or he showed them how to build what they needed. He was known to have a tape measure and a pencil handy at all times. In 2007, Ron and Marcia moved to a transitional living community called Bently Village. The setting was lovely, overlooking a golf course, but their decision was also based on the great resources that would be available to them over the years. Sadly, Ronald died Monday, June 15, 2009 in Naples, Florida at the age of 81. He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by his beloved family. Ronald A. Kanaar, is survived by his wife Marcia; children, Greg (Eileen) Kanaar of Muskegon, Gary (Kim) Kanaar of Holton, Mark (Diana) Johnson of FL, Lynn New of Muskegon; Kevin Johnson of Muskegon, grandchildren, Andy (Sarah) Kanaar, Ben (Jen) Kanaar, Ken Kanaar, Brian Kanaar, Lindsey New, Kaleb Johnson; great grandchildren, Abigail and Riley Kanaar; sister, Donna (Ned) Krohn; sister-in-law, Margaret Kanaar. He was preceded in death by his 1st wife, Vivian Andrews Kanaar; son, Brad Johnson; brothers, Jack and Robert Kanaar. A service to celebrate Ronalds life will be held Wednesday, July 8, 2009, 11:00 AM at the Clock Chapel. Visitation is Tuesday, 4-7 PM and Wednesday, 1 hour prior to the service at Clock Life Story Funeral Home - Muskegon. Memorial contributions made to Avow Hospice, 1095 Whipporwill Lane, Naples, FL 34105 are greatly appreciated. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to leave a memory or sign the online guest book.