Ronald Anthony Juip, 91

Ronald Anthony Juip, age 91, passed away peacefully on February 11 in Florida, surrounded by the love of his wife and children. Born on June 10, 1934, Ron was the beloved son of Leo Norman and Mildred Elizabeth (Rumph) Juip.

Ron grew up on his family’s dairy farm in Warren, then later in Romeo, Michigan. He graduated from Armada High School in 1952. In 1957, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1959. That same year, he joined his father in founding Brown City Sod Farm, beginning a long and dedicated career in agriculture.

While farming, Ron was deeply involved in his community. He was active in the Rotary Club, the Knights of Columbus, Catholic Social Services and Sacred Heart Church in Imlay City. He served on the building committee responsible for constructing both Sacred Heart Church and the Casa Maria Senior Center. Ron also served for many years on the Imlay City Bank Board, and in recognition of his commitment to the community, he was named Citizen of the Year in 1976.

After retiring, Ron embraced a life that took him to Florida in the winters and New York in the summers. He enjoyed golf, gardening, and – above all -spending time with his family.

Ron is survived by his devoted wife, Jane (Mclean) Juip; his children Michael (Lisa) Juip, Leanne (Harold) Higgins, and Ronette (Douglas) Brinker; and his stepson Alexander Mclean. He was a proud grandfather to Samantha (Ryan) Belanger, Nicholas (Jylian) Juip, Joshua Juip, Grant Drouillard, Allison Drouillard, Owen Brinker, and Sidni Brinker. He also leaves behind cherished great-grandchildren: Brayden and Violet Belanger and Leo Juip. He is also survived by siblings Sr. Bernice Juip, and Shirley (Robert) Juip-Soule: many nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Ron was preceded in death by his first wife, Phyllis (Schoenherr) Juip; daughters Marie and Ann Marie Juip; and his wife Kathleen (Lee) Juip. Siblings Joanne (Edward) Van Overbeke, Betty (Carl) Grewe, Lee (Susan) Juip, Mary Jo (David) Webb.

Ron’s life was marked by faith, service, generosity and the unconditional love he offered to everyone fortunate enough to know him. His legacy will continue to live in the hearts of his family and the community he served so faithfully.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dominican Sisters of Springfield, Illinois 1237 W. Monroe St. Springfield, IL 62704, or a charity of your choice.

The family will have a mass of Christian burial for Ron near the end of May in Imlay City, Michigan.