Age 73, went to be with Jesus on February 27, 2018 at his home with his wife and family by his side. Ron was born in Kalamazoo on May 26, 1944, the son of the late John and Loretta (Mussellman) VanDyken. He was a 1962 graduate of Kalamazoo Central High School, where he played center on the football team, proudly wearing the number 52. Two of his grandsons would also wear 52 on their high school sports teams. Ron also went on to play football at Northwood Institute. Following college, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves and proudly proclaimed, “SEMPER FI” his whole life. Ron was employed by the Upjohn Company for 30 years. On February 1, 1969, Ron married the former Beverly J. Bos, who survives. He is also survived by three daughters, Cheryl (Chris) Voisin, Andrea VanDyken and Abigail (Brian) Colvin; grandchildren, George, Kaleb and Gabriele Voisin, Allen Rood and Raelene and Michael (Shelby) Colvin; and great-grandson, Wyatt Colvin. Ron dearly loved his daughters, sons-in-love and grandchildren; taking great pride in them and their awesome accomplishments. It broke his heart that he was unable to attend any of their functions during the past several years. In 1975, Ron moved his family to 10 ½ acres in Scotts, which he lovingly called his “little farm”. There, he took his turn at raising a few polled herefords, some pigs, a couple of sheep, some chickens, dogs and a multitude of kittens; along with horses and ponies. Ron’s nieces and nephews affectionately nicknamed him “Old McRonald”. Before his health issues arose, he and Bev had some delightful travels including a couple of cruises, a trip to inner Jamaica, driving tours out west, especially enjoying Oatman and Sedona with the Pink Jeep rides; and many short trips to the Upper Peninsula, or better known as “God’s country”. Ron was an avid golfer, woodworker and mechanic. He spent many evenings under a car or truck. He loved working on his familes’ vehicles, keeping everyone safe on the road. Ron participated in many golf benefits and loved helping others. On a trip to Florida, he discovered cypress wood and made gorgeous clocks from it. Ron led his family on wood cutting excursions, using the wood to heat their home. He also did most of the remodeling in his families’ homes. Ron enjoyed fireworks displays, an interest that started as a teenager and following him to his death. Perhaps most importantly about Ron’s life was that 24 years ago, he gave his life to Jesus during a nephew’s funeral. He was not one to wear his emotions or feelings on his shirt sleeve but made it clear how he felt about Heaven and it is with extreme happiness that his family knows where he is now; healthy, whole and happier than he has been in a long time.