Ronald Foster

Ron was born in Kalamazoo to Andrew and Elizabeth Foster. He passed peacefully in his home with loved ones caring for him.

After graduating from St. Augustine Catholic School, Ron attended Flint Barber College, and went on to open Foster's Barber Shop in Portage. At the same time, Ron proudly served in the Army Reserves as a medic.

Soon after meeting the love of his life, Ron married Carole Brewer in 1963. Together they had three children: Ronald James, Stephanie (Ric) Sampson, and Julie (Brian Wood) Walters. They settled in Kalamazoo.

Wanting to change careers, Ron attended WMU's Paper Technology program. He enjoyed sales, meeting many friends and entertaining colleagues. This was Ron's niche, having a socially interactive job with travel elements and opportunities to use his God given gift of humor! Ron eventually used his knowledge and experience to open his own business, the RJ Foster Company and became a manufacturer's representative. He was an interest owner in Twinsburg Mold, which gave him the access to produce parts that were sold by his company. Ron was always an extremely hard worker, beginning as a young teen at a pool hall!

Ron's dream of living on a farm came to fruition in the mid 70's. It was important to Ron to have his children grow up in a rural environment. He had much to learn as a gentleman farmer, and did so with determination, hard work, and help from family, friends and neighboring farmers.

Along with billiards, Ron loved to golf in his spare time. He was in several leagues and enjoyed golf trips, which led to his Snowbird status in Rotonda West, Florida where he enjoyed more frequent golfing opportunities.

Ron is survived by his children, as well as 9 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. His silly songs and unique nicknames will stay with them forever!

Preceding Ron in death are his parents and ten siblings.

A visitation rosary will be held on Tuesday, October 1 from 4-7 pm at Joldersma-Klein Funeral Home, 917 S. Burdick St., Kalamazoo, Michigan, with the rosary beginning at 6:30 pm. Funeral Mass will follow on Wednesday, October 2 at 11 am at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church, 5855 E. W Ave., Vicksburg, Michigan, followed by full military honors.

Donations in Ron's memory can be made to Wounded Warrior Project. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home or church.