Ronald James Easten

Ronald James Easten, 77, of Traverse City, passed away on December 11, 2025, at Munson Medical Center with his loving family at his side.

Ron was born on April 23, 1948, in Baltimore, Maryland, to the late William and Anna (Finger) Easten. He married the love of his life, Rita Lee Bristol, on July 31, 1971, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Traverse City. Together, they lovingly raised two daughters, Robin and Rian.

Honorably and most proudly, Ron served his country in the United States Army. He loved his Army brothers deeply. His entire platoon went to the Gulf War and he led with loyalty, strength, and heart. They remained a close-knit family for the rest of his life.

After his military service, Ron returned home and continued a long and respected career at Munson Medical Center as an orthopedic tech. He was known as a hard worker, incredibly dependable, and highly knowledgeable. His intelligence, patience, and kindness made him admired by all who learned from him.

Ron was a longtime member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and spent time at St. Francis as well before returning to Immaculate.

In his spare time, Ron enjoyed local road trips with his family, reading, listening to music, crossword puzzles, and board games. He especially enjoyed cribbage and aggravation, playing daily with Rita. He also had a deep appreciation for astronomy and found the stars endlessly fascinating. He was an avid birdwatcher and loved spending time observing the birds that visited his home. Animals always held a special place in Ron's heart.

He was a loving father who created treasured memories with winter picnics in February, fishing trips, camping adventures, and countless outings in nature throughout Michigan.

Most of all, Ron loved his family, especially his granddaughters. He was a supportive, devoted, and loving grandfather who would do anything for his granddaughters.

Ron will be deeply missed by his wife of 54 devoted years, Rita; his daughters, Robin Ratcliffe and Rian (David) Easten-Singh; his granddaughters, Isabelle and Annika Ratcliffe; his sister, Marge Kern; and his beloved cat, Scarlett; along with many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, William and John Easten.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM.

Burial will take place at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens on Friday, December 26, 2025, at 1:00 PM, with full military honors.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Paralyzed Veterans of America, Disabled American Veterans or the Cherryland Humane Society.

Kindly share thoughts and memories at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .