Ron DeClark

He was born in Norway, Michigan to the late Oscar and Clara DeClark. Ron retired from Warren Consolidated Schools after working for 30 years as a teacher. His career began after receiving a bachelor’s degree in education from Northern Michigan University and a master’s degree from Michigan State University. He loved to teach and held a lifelong love of learning and was a beloved teacher by his students. Ron was a man of devout Christian faith and was a member of Troy Christian Chapel for over 40 years.

When Ron met his wife Karen, they bonded over their love for the outdoors. Whether it was hunting, fishing, or gardening, there were few outdoor activities Ron shied away from. Ron passed along his adventurous spirit to his children and grandchildren. The family would go “up north” to the U.P. to their hunting camp seeking out their favorite hunting and fishing spots. Ron was also very proud of his well-kept gun collection.

He had a kind heart and sharing his life with others was how he showed family and friends he loved them. Some of the best times Ron and Karen had together were traveling the world including the United States, Europe, Asia and beyond. It didn’t matter where they were, they were happy as long as they were together. Their travels away made him appreciate the time at home that much more.

An avid animal lover, Ron enjoyed his pigeons and doves. He was often caught sitting on a bench in their backyard watching them in their coop. He also had a fondness for beagles and enjoyed raising them and taking them on hunts. Other passions of his included landscaping and tending to the garden that Ron and Karen cultivated.

At the end of a long day, he would relax on the couch with his beagles curled up at his side or go to his favorite restaurant spot the Coachman to see friends. When the time came and his children had kids of their own, he was on the sidelines cheering on his grandkids at their different sporting and dancing events.

A cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, son-in-law, brother-in-law, uncle, and friend, Ron will be missed dearly by all. Beloved husband of Karen for 43 years. Loving dad of John (Dana) DeClark, Mike (Annette) DeClark, Lisa (Matt) Hirsch, Rob (Kimberly) DeClark, Tom (Julie) DeClark, Michelle “Shelly” (Frank) Brasza, and Mikey DeClark. Cherished grandpa of Jenny, Ryan, Leah, Joey, Steven, Amanda, David, Kelly, Josie, Brooke, Ben, Nick, Nino, and Vinny. Caring great grandpa of Caeden, Landen, Maelynn, Ava, and Adalyn. Dear brother of Jack (Lois) DeClark and Annette Andersen, as well as several nieces, nephews and first wife, Judy DeClark. Also survived by his best friend, a German Shepard named Asanti.

Visitation for Ron will be held on Thursday, July 20th at 4pm-8pm with a 7pm Prayer and Eulogy Service at D.S. Temrowski Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Rd at Common 12 1/2 Mile Road), Warren, MI 48093.

He will lie in state, Friday, July 21st at 10am until time of Funeral Service at 11am at Troy Christian Chapel, 400 E Long Lake Rd, Troy, MI 48085.

Memorial donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital are appreciated.