Ronald L. Vanderlinden, age 81, of Gladstone, passed away surrounded by his family, Wednesday evening, August 23, 2017, at Christian Park Village in Escanaba.
Ron was born July 13, 1936, in Escanaba, the son of Gilbert and Elizabeth (Vermeulen) Vanderlinden. He was raised in Escanaba and was a graduate of Escanaba High School. In November of 1959, Ron enlisted in the United States Army where he served until his honorable discharge in February of 1962. Following his discharge, Ron returned home where he eventually was united in marriage to the former Kay Starnes. Together Ron and Kay made their home and raised their family on North Bluff in Gladstone. In addition to working as a Electrician for Local Union #979, Ron built, owned, and operated North Bluff Grocery Store with his family from 1977 until his retirement in 1998. He enjoyed playing cards at the casinos and had a love for carpentry and proudly built his home, grocery store and camp. He will be deeply missed.
Survivors include:
Son: David (Tina) Vanderlinden of Gladstone, MI
Daughter: Debbie (Tracy) Thompson of Escanaba, MI
Grandchildren: Derek, Holly, Heidi, Shawna, Seth, Ryan, Michael Paul,
Cory, and Hailee Also listed among the surviving family are 6 great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to his parents, Gilbert and Elizabeth, Ron was preceded in death by:
Son: Michael Scott Vanderlinden
Brothers: Richard and Robert
Sisters: Gladys and Betty
Former wife and friend: Kay Pepin
Ron’s family will receive friends on Monday August 28, 2017, from 4:00PM to 6:00PM, at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Military rites will follow visiting hours, at 6:00PM on Monday, at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone, with the Gladstone American Legion August Mattson Post #71 presiding. Luncheon will follow at Gladstone American Legion from 6:30PM to 8:00PM. Ron will be laid to rest in the Fernwood Cemetery in Gladstone on Tuesday at 1:00PM. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting with arrangements.
Rich Vanderlinden - Burke, VA
Our deepest sympathy. We are sad that we cannot be present to join the family in celebrating Uncle Ronnie’s life. Love, Rich, Kathy, Nicole & Zack Vanderlinden
Janet Beauvais - APPLETON, WI
Debbie and family,
Sincere condolences in the passing of your dad. He was a great friendly guy. My dad was one that really enjoyed the conversations with “Ronnie” and picking his mechanical knowledge. I’m sure he will be missed by all.
Blessings,
Janet Shandonay_Beauvais
Richard M. - Escanaba, Mi
Ron was probably the hardest working man I’ve ever known; loved his profession as an electrician, and helped many people along the way.His accomplishments were many. RIP Ron; condolences to all the family members.