On Thursday, August 13, 2020, Ronald C. Hemmeke, loving husband, father and grandfather, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 79.
Ron was born on June 20, 1941 to John and Janet (Van Slooten) Hemmeke of West Olive, Michigan. Ron was known for being an extremely hard worker with a strong will. Ron enlisted in the Navy and served his country with pride. He was a union carpenter who worked very hard for his family and created a comfortable life. Some notable accomplishments in his career are The Breslin Center of Lansing, Michigan, many bridges in Michigan and Valparaiso University of Indiana.
He raised two step-sons and his daughter, Chuck and Greg, and daughter, Ronna. Ron had a passion for the outdoors. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He frequented the donut shops in secrecy, one of his favorites being Abbe’s of Port Charlotte, Florida where he resided during the Michigan winters. He was known for his quick wit, patriotism, and his no nonsense attitude. He will be deeply missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Janet (Vanslooten) Hemmeke. He is survived by his wife Patricia Hemmeke, his daughter, Ronna (Mike) Leeuw, Step-Children Chuck (Tammy) and Greg Hudd, Sara (David Jr.) Ghent and David (Caitlin) Clift Jr., siblings Ken, Dan (Judie), Clyde (Cindy), Mary (John) Robinson, Gene (Barbara), John (Sara), Grandchildren Jamie (Steven) Dirkse, Breanna (Trevor) Bouma, Colt Rouhan, Avery Ghent, Braedon Ghent, Mallory Kelly, Quinn Clift and David Clift III, Great Grandchildren Juliannah Dirkse, Bentley Dirkse, and Russell Bouma and several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, August 19, 2020 at the Amvets, post 1988 in Baldwin, Michigan at 1 o’clock p.m. In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to Lake County Honor Guard.
