Obituary of Ronald Edward Klapec
Ronald Edward Klapec was born on May 19, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan. He was the middle child of three sons born to Casmier and Clara (Wondolkowski) Klapec. Ron graduated from Cass Tech High School in Detroit with the Class of 1957. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy for three years. Although they attended different schools, fate brought Ron and his future spouse together as young teens. On February 17, 1962, he wed the former Louise Sumpter at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church in Detroit. The couple enjoyed fifty-five years of marriage and were blessed with a son and three daughters. A pressman all his working life, Ron retired from Heitman & Garand Printing Company in Detroit after many years of service. He was a proud member of the International Printing and Graphic Communication Union.
An avid fisherman, Ron frequently launched his boat onto Lake Erie and into the Detroit River. The winter months never stopped his pursuit of a big catch as Ron would even trek out onto the frozen waters to drop in a line. During the summers, he chauffeured his children around to Boblo Island and Cedar Point amusement parks via boat. Ron deer hunted on his brother’s property in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and once took a memorable trip out west to hunt wild boar. He also traveled to Branson, Missouri and toured the New England States alongside his wife, first cousin and her spouse. It took the Klapec’s four years, but they eventually made it to Hawaii on their 29th wedding anniversary to celebrate their 25th anniversary.
A fabulous cook and baker, Ron learned his way around the kitchen during his time in the Navy. He’d perfected his goulash and kapusta recipes. Ron and his spouse bowled on the leagues at the famous Garden Bowl in Detroit. He frequently tuned into the soap opera, “General Hospital”, on television. Ron also enjoyed the classic show, “Gunsmoke”, western movies featuring John Wayne, and the action-packed movie, “Top Gun”. Ron kept his mind sharp perusing the newspaper daily and working on word search puzzles.
A sensible man, Ron always investigated things thoroughly. He never made any decision without at least three estimates and consultations. Ron could be sassy at times and had a sharp sense of humor. He was flirty with women he knew well and always tried to get a laugh out of his nurses. Ron was a wonderful father and grandfather, riveled only by his wife in being a great parent. His children truly “hit the lottery” when he became their dad.
Ronald Edward Klapec, age 84, of Carleton, Michigan passed away peacefully at Fountainview of Monroe on Thursday; June 1, 2023. His passing was preceded by his parents; his beloved wife: Louise Klapec in 2017; a son: Donald Klapec in 2008; and two brothers: Casmier and Chuck Klapec.
To cherish his memory, he leaves three daughters: Michelle (James) Hardesty, Donna Klapec, and Tracy (Bryan) Dziubek; four grandchildren: Jason Klapec (Cate Rosewelle), Danielle Hardesty, Jeremy Hardesty (Jessica Altherr), and Jocelyn Dziubek (Bobby Kowalczyk); eight great grandchildren: Ayden, Scarlett, Addison, Gianna, Liam, Mya, RJ, and Brooklyn; five nieces and nephews; and a feline friend: Lorelai, his daughter’s cat who was often curled up next to Ron.
Friends may gather on Monday; June 5, 2023, from 2:00pm until 7:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of Ronald’s Life will be held on Tuesday; June 6, 2023, at 11:00am also at Merkle’s. Cremation will follow through the on-site crematory, Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan.
Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.