Keith L. Ronan

Keith L. Ronan, 87, of South Haven, died Sunday, February 23, 2014 at the South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Community. Born June 4, 1926 to Kenneth and Phoebe Ronan in Cleveland, Ohio, Keith was raised in rural Michigan.  As a youth, one of his hobbies was as a recognized member of the debate team.  He graduated from high school in June of 1944.  Keith joined the army just one day after graduation and went on to proudly serve his country in the 306 Regiment as part of the 77th Division.  In April of 1945 Keith was awarded the Bronze Star for his heroic actions during battle on Okinawa.  Honorably discharged in 1945, Keith went on to attend, and subsequently graduate, from Albion College with additional education at Tufts Business College.  He studied History, Law and International Diplomacy. Keith retired in 1998 after a successful career in business that included partial ownership and management of Alwyn Downs Golf Club in Marshall, MI.

Keith was a member of various organizations including the Moose Lodge in Marshall, MI, a Board member with Friends of The Orchestra in Battle Creek, MI, and an active member in the VFW in South Haven, MI.

Keith loved to travel with his wife Dolores including excursions to Egypt, Africa, Spain and throughout Europe.  He enjoyed all things sports including golf as well as being an avid Michigan Wolverines and Detroit Lions fan.  As a voracious reader, Keith was rarely seen without a book (particularly history) in addition to a plethora of newspapers.  He enjoyed dining out, collecting wine and spending time with family and friends while enjoying the splendor of Lake Michigan sunrises and sunsets.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents Phoebe (Miller) Ronan and Kenneth Ronan; brother Martin and sister Julia. 

Survived by his wife of forty years Dolores Ronan of South Haven, MI; children from his first marriage daughters Anne (Larry) Heathcote of Wyoming MI, and Cynthia (Terry) Spalding of Batavia, IL, and son Ken (Christina) Ronan of Battle Creek, MI;  grandchildren Rachael Spalding and Brendan Ronan;  stepson Mark (Mary) Dillon of Houston, TX and grandchildren Aubrey (Pedro ) Lopez and Ashley Dillon; sister-in-law JoAnn Beattie; three nephews and beloved niece Kari (Kari) Beattie and grandniece Sadie of Salt Lake City, UT.                                                 

A memorial service will be held for Keith  at 2:30 PM on Sunday, March 9, 2014 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 269-637-0333.. If you wish, donations may be made in Keith’s name to the Wounded Warriors Fund.