Ronald Robert Durham

Ronald Robert Durham, age 75, passed away at his home in Austin, Texas surrounded by his wife and daughter on Saturday, January 13, 2018. He was born on September 3, 1942 in Flat Rock, Michigan, to Edward Carlyle Durham and Billie June (Moore) Hamilton.

After high school, Ron enlisted in the Army where he was a decorated marksman with an E-5 Sergeant rank; he studied topography and became a map compiler. On March 1, 1969, he married Mary Katherine Kasper while residing in Michigan. Together, they had two children, Ronald Andrew (now deceased) and Stacey Ann. Ron and Mary Kay enjoyed camping together and spending time with family and friends. Ron enjoyed outdoor activities and sports such as baseball, football, and fishing. His favorite sports teams included the Detroit Red Wings, Michigan Wolverines, Detroit Tigers, and Detroit Lions.

When their children were younger, Ron spent countless hours coaching sports teams and when they grew older, he and Kay would travel to watch them play. They remained side-by-side throughout their 48 years of marriage with a deep, unwavering, love for one another and set an example of a true life-partnership.

After leaving Chicago Aerial Survey in 1983, Ron accepted a position with the Texas Department of Transportation and relocated from Chicago to Austin, Texas with his family. Ron has been described as the life of any party and had the ability to make people feel welcome, part of the group, and loved. He loved his family more than life. His gift was his sense of humor and practical jokes; his smile and witty approach brightened any room. He worked hard and instilled that work ethic in his children. He taught them life lessons, tough love, and how to take risks without fear of failure.

He is survived by his soul mate of 48 years, Kay; daughter Stacey; sister Susan Check of Michigan; Uncle Kenneth Moore (Minnie) of Michigan; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

The visitation will be Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home, 14501 North Interstate 35 in Pflugerville, Texas. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 18, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Albert the Great Catholic Church, 12041 Bittern Hollow, Austin, Texas. Burial will follow at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Bill Check, Frankie Maraulo, Chris Roelse, Jeff Jacques, James Mulhall, Herbie Klaus, and Christopher Klaus. Honorary Pallbearers are Andrew Kasper and Rich Krueger.