Ronald J. Elie, age 83, of Escanaba passed away on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at the St. Francis Hospital in Escanaba.
Ronald was born December 18, 1941 in Bourbonnais, Illinois, the son of Vital and Hannah (Leadman) Elie. He was united in marriage to Carol Kanerva on November 16, 1963. They were happily married for over 61 years. He worked as a machinist for the Mead Paper Company and was also a skilled carpenter. He enjoyed wood working, hunting and fishing.
Ronald is survived by his wife, Carol, his daughters, Lisa (Brian) Schneider and Brenda Nelson, both of Appleton, WI, grandchildren Kelsey Bustos, Lexi (Jason) Priest and Cassie (special friend Ryne Van Stippen) Nelson, sister, Pat (John) Derkos of Farmington Hills, MI, nephews, Ron Spencer and Troy Derkos and niece, Tammy (Jason) Gaydovchik.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Anita Spencer.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, April 5 from 12:00 to 2:00 PM at the Skradski Family Funeral Home in Escanaba. Memorial services will follow at 2:00 PM with Pastor Bob Derhiem officiating.
Chris and Bill - Escanaba , Mi
Dear Carol, Bill and I have very heavy hearts this morning learning about Ron’s passing. He was the nicest man and such a wonderful neighbor. Enjoyed our chats when we would walk by. Take care. We won’t be able to come to his funeral as we are in Florida. So very sorry.I will stop over when we get home the end of April
Lorin Cook - Independence, KY
Brenda and family, sorry to hear about your dad. If you need anything please reach out.
Willa Fornetti - Oshkosh, WI
Carol, Brenda, Lisa and family- So very sorry for your loss Elie’s. Ron was a very kind man and neighbor. We will lift up your family in our prayers.
Tom & Theresa Pietsch - Gladstone, MI
Carol, sorry to hear about Ron. He was a good man. I enjoyed working with him and all his laughter. He was so thankful with the flagpole. Super nice guy & it’s been a privilege to know him. I will keep him in my prayers.
MIke Derusha - Plainfield, IL
Carol, Lisa, Brenda
Since I have left Escanaba, I have had many people/customers ask me how I have learned as much as I do, My answer to them is, when I stated working I had 3 guys from 3 different generations, with Ron being the main Mentor. He would always take his time and show me how to work out any problem I had. Ron will forever be in my memory. Rest in Peace Ron!
Keith and Luann - Felch, MI
To my dear Aunt Carol, my cousins Lisa and Brenda and their families,
Uncle Ron will be deeply missed. He was so fun to hang out with and he had a big heart. He knew that we loved him. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if there is anything we can do.
Randy Strasler - Escanaba , MI
Ron was a great person to work with. So talented. Also a very friendly person who had time for us always.
Gary Thinglum - Titusville, FL
Carol, Brenda, and Lisa: you have our deepest sympathy in the loss of Ron. He was a wonderful guy. Also, a great neighbor, and friend. He was always there if you needed a hand, or advise on building, or whatever. I will miss our chats.
Sorry we could not make services; we will stop by when we get home from Florida.
He will be in my prayers.
Gary, Karen, and Pamela Thinglum
Diane Woolley - Gilbert, AZ
Lisa, on behalf of the Bustos family our deepest condolences and prayers being sent to you and your family.
Bonnie Peterson Carignan - Felch, Mi
Carol & Family, So sorry to hear of Ron’s passing. Such a wonderful man, he will be missed by all who knew him. I have good memories of Ron & my Dad working for Ken, me babysitting the girls all those years ago. Keeping you all in my thoughts & prayers at this difficult time.
Dan and Kathy Creten - Escanaba, MI
Carol,
Our deepest condolences for your loss of dear Ron. He was quite a guy! We hold you in our heart, and hope to see you when we return from Arizona.
Gary Lehman - Escanaba, MI
My condolences to Ron’s entire family. He was such a great guy. I worked in the Paper Mill’s storeroom, so I got to know Ron pretty well. May you Rest In Peace my friend!