Ronald E. Bristow

Ronald (Ron) E. Bristow, 73, died February 22, 2012, in Henderson, Nevada where he resided, following a massive heart attack. He was born, May 7, 1938 in Jackson, Michigan. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Karen; four children, Kathryn (Bob) Wynn, Sonia, Ronald, Jr., of Jackson, and Todd, of Las Vegas, Nevada; six grandchildren: Shylah Bristow, Carron, Samantha, and Sahannah Wynn, Koal and Shelby Bristow; four great-grandchildren: Shay, Tyler, Tavia, and Nyah; Sisters: Elaine (Mel) Stone, Hazel Wootten, Marlene (Ken) Stewart, of Jackson, Irene (Joe) McMeekin of Florida, and brother, Duane (Karon) Pool, of Jackson. Ron was preceded in death by Mother, Ivabel Wilson, Father, George Bristow, and Stepfathers, Milton Pool, and Joseph Simchick; and sisters, Dolores (Richard) Boody, Joann LaFountain, and Dianna England. Ron is also survived by In-laws: Roy England of Jackson, Jerry and Marilyn Campbell of South Carolina, and Dan Gardner of Kentucky, numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Ron attended Jackson High School, graduating in the United States Army and continuing his service, 1956-1959 serving as Staff Sergeant. He graduated from the 7th Army NCO Academy and earned his medal for Army Expert Weapons. Upon discharge from the military in 1959, Ron worked for a short time as a tool and die maker. When Ron saw The Golden Arches rising with the first McDonald's Restaurant in Jackson, he joined The Bill Sigmund McDonald's rising to General Operations Manager over all the Sigmund restaurants. In 1974, Ron's outstanding leadership qualities opened the opportunity to open his own McDonald's Restaurant in Portland, Indiana, and over the years owned and operated six McDonald's franchises. Ron earned many prestigious awards in McDonald's including The Ronald McDonald Award, numerous outstanding restaurant awards and was a leader in the McDonald's Corporate community of franchisees including Co-Op President for 12 years. In 1996, after 37 years in McDonald's, Ron retired to Henderson, Nevada enjoying travel and numerous community activities with his wife, Karen.

Ron always believed in being a good corporate citizen. He served in many professional and community organizations including The Rotary Club, Boys and Girls Club, and The Chamber of Commerce, and was the recipient of numerous honors and awards for community service. Ron was an active member of Green Valley Baptist Church, Henderson, Nevada. Funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, March 3, 2012 at 10:00 am, with Pastor David Cornwell officiating. Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday, March 2, 2012, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Ron will be laid to rest at Woodland Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ronald McDonald Children's Charities of Northeast Indiana 2200 Randallia Drive, Fort Wayne, IN 46805 or Green Valley Baptist Church 270 N Valle Verde Dr. Henderson, NV 89074.