Ron Yocum

Ronald H. Yocum, 87, of Traverse City, Michigan and Aubrey, Texas, passed away on October 21, 2026 at Munson Medical Center. 

Born on June 2, 1939 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Ron was the son of the late Jacob Harris Yocum and Gladys (Phillips) Yocum. He graduated from Upper Darby High School in Philadelphia before attending Gettysburg College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry. He continued his education at the University of Pennsylvania, earning his PhD in Chemistry. During his University years, Ron met and married Martha Virginia Meitzner. 

After graduation, Ron and Martha moved to Midland, Michigan, where he began his career at Dow Chemical Company. In 1985, Ron joined Enron Chemical Company in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. Through a series of corporate mergers and acquisitions, he ultimately became President and CEO of Millennium Chemical Company, serving until 1998. He then concluded his career as CEO of the American Plastics Council in Arlington, Virginia, retiring in 2001. 

 Deeply valuing his own education, Ron received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Gettysburg College and served as an Alumni Trustee on its Board of Trustees. In retirement, volunteering became a core passion. He generously gave his time to the Boy Scouts of America, the Munson Medical Center in Traverse City, the Elk Rapids Chapter of Rotary International, Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City and in the churches located where he lived. 

Throughout his life, Ron also enjoyed numerous outdoor pastimes, including boating, kayaking, camping, bicycling, hiking and ranching. He was an avid animal lover with a special fondness for horses, finding great joy in their company. 

He is survived by his devoted wife, Martha; his daughter, Beth Yocum Leonard (husband, Bruce); and his son, James Eric Yocum (wife, Deborah). He is also lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Katie Leonard Bone (husband, Evan), Elizabeth Leonard Burton (husband, Jake), Michael James Leonard (wife, Kara), Sarah Noelle Yocum, Rebecca Christine Yocum and Grace Katherine Yocum. Additionally, he leaves behind his great-grandchildren, Ellis, Brooklyn, and Haven Bone, along with a Baby Boy Bone and Baby Boy Burton on the way. 

A memorial service will be held on June 12, 2027 at Mission Hill Church in Traverse City. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Mission Hill Church in Traverse City or the Cowell Family Cancer Center in Traverse City.