Ronald A. Gugel

Ronald Arthur Gugel, aged 85, of Lewiston, MI, gracefully entered the gates of Heaven on January 1st, 2024, after a brief illness.

Born in Denmark Township on October 5th, 1938, to Emma Louise (Kneiling) and Clarence Arthur Gugel, Ron was a loving husband to Jeanne (Boughan/Dues) for 61 years. Together, they were blessed with four children, of whom he was immensely proud: Dr. Mark (Amy) Gugel, Ann Gugel, Dr. Shawna (Richard) Foley, and David (Andy Bauer) Gugel. Ron cherished moments spent with his grandchildren: Riley & Jesse Gugel, Lauren & Kayla Foley. Preceded in death by his parents and infant sister Sandra, he is survived by his wife Jeanne and brother Larry Gugel of Richville, MI.

A multisport athlete at Vassar, MI, High School, Ron graduated in 1958, declining a football scholarship to CMU to join the US Army Corps as a postal clerk. Post-Army, he worked at Saginaw Steering Gear and served as a volunteer firefighter in Richville, MI.

In 1985, Ron and Jeanne took ownership of Tee Lake Resort (formerly Horseshoe Resort) in Lewiston, MI, creating a haven for countless guests. Ron, with warmth, welcomed each visitor, forming lasting connections and lifelong friendships.

A member of St. Michaels Lutheran Church in Richville, MI, Hope Lutheran Church in Plant City, FL, and Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lewiston, where he served as an elder, Ron's unwavering faith brought him great comfort.

Ron adored his grandchildren, finding joy in their company. A fervent sports enthusiast, particularly cheering for the Lions and Tigers, he engaged in friendly quarter bets with his grandson, Jesse, predicting Super Bowl outcomes. Watching Lauren and Kayla on the volleyball court brought him immense pride. Ron's love for euchre extended to lively games with Riley.

Beyond sports, Ron had a passion for musicals, often humming his favorite tunes with a twinkle in his eye. His love for music brought him to Walt Disney World where you could often find him enjoying their captivating live concert series. He experienced a magical moment when Terri Nunn, the lead singer of the band Berlin, serenaded him with their Academy Award-winning song, "Take My Breath Away." He and Jeanne frequented many central Florida parks, but it was the Strawberry Festival in Plant City that held a special place in their hearts—and in their bellies, thanks to the delectable strawberry shortcake that became their favorite indulgence.

Affectionately dubbed the "cookie monster," Ron was the adored Grandpa to all his furry grandpups, embodying a passionate love for dogs, with a special place in his heart for his beloved Collie companion, Teddy.

Known for his quick wit and hilarious sense of humor, Ron was always fun to be around. And whenever asked about his well-being he would always reply, "Fit as a fiddle".

A Celebration of Life for Ron will take place in the spring, with details to be announced soon.