Obituaries

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald Damuth Sr. on February 24, 2024, at the age of 71. Surrounded by his loved ones, Ron departed this world, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and immeasurable wisdom.

Born on January 7, 1953, in Utica, NY, to Robert and Agnes Damuth, Ron's journey led him from New York to Florida, to Virginia and eventually to Detroit, Michigan at the age of 13. It was in Detroit that he met the love of his life, Debbie, at the age of 14. They embarked on a lifelong journey together, celebrating 53 years of marriage. Ron and Debbie were inseparable; they were soulmates and best friends, building a life filled with cherished memories.

Ron was the proud owner and operator of Ron's Bug Stop in Detroit displaying a passion for the Volkswagen Beetle. As a lifelong mechanic and fixer of all things he spent countless happy and frustrating hours under cars. He later transitioned to the role of a “supervisor” for those who shared his love for fixing things.

Devoted to community service, at SS. Peter and Paul he was affectionately known as Mr. D. He served as the Boy Scout Scoutmaster for Detroit Troop 525 for over 14 years and an adult leader for the Mackinac Island Honor Scouts, a youth group leader, and a member of the Men’s Club.

In his professional life, Ron was a dedicated Union Leader and representative for Coca-Cola and later for the Department of Corrections for the State of Michigan. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed annual deer hunting with his buddies. Even if the deer seemed to elude him, he found solace napping against a tree.

Also known to many as Big Ron, he gave everyone a fair chance, a listening ear, and words of wisdom. A skilled storyteller, he loved recounting tales of growing up in New York and coming of age in Detroit where he discovered his love of fixing cars. Big Ron was a patient teacher, always willing to share his knowledge and time with others.

As a devoted dad to his three children, Ron stood as the cornerstone and strength of his family. He cherished his grandchildren, relishing every moment spent in their company and seizing every opportunity to chat with them. Spanning from his eldest grandchild of twenty-five years to the youngest at six, each one was captivated by "Grandpa stories." Engaging in conversations and sharing tales, he was the biggest supporter of his grandchildren, and in return, they were his greatest admirers.

Ronald is survived by his loving wife Debbie Damuth, sons Ronald Mark II (Rachel) and Ryan (Ea), daughter Rochelle, his grandchildren Rylee, Hunter, Rebecca, Reece, Rosanna, Samantha and Natalie and brothers Richard and Randall. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Robert, and his parents-in-law, Harrell and Gina Donahue.

A celebration of Ron's life will be planned for early summer. Details will be shared with friends and family at a later date.

Ron Damuth Sr. will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his spirit will live on in the hearts and memories of those he touched. May he rest in eternal peace.

Ronald was a regular blood donor throughout his life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Red Cross in Ronald's honor, continuing his legacy of service and compassion. https://www.redcross.org/donate/memorial-donations.html