Chief Ronald James Kibzey

Chief Ronald J. Kibzey, age 73 of Warren, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loved ones, on March 3, 2020. He was the cherished son of the late Bohden Boris and the late Mae Janet Kibzey.

A mere fledgling firefighter, Ronald chose Warren to set off on his new career path with dreams and aspirations of reaching for the stars. Through hard work, dedication and service excellence, Ronald would ultimately climb that ladder of success, proudly attaining the position and stature of Fire Chief. This is the position from which he would retire 16 years ago following 32 years and 9 months of loyal and honorable service to the City of Warren, alongside his fellow firefighting brothers. Yet firefighting wasn’t Ronald’s sole source of employment. Though it was definitely the pinnacle of his dreams, he was never one to stand idle for very long. With those hard work ethics he possessed, staying busy was of utmost importance. So for those down times when not serving the city, Ronald exercised his mechanical skills as a Tool & Die Maker,…which basically kept him busy 7 days a week.

But it wasn’t all about work either. His family’s memories are rife with the many times he packed up the car, loaded them up, and headed for their favorite camping spot in Ipperwash, Ontario,…just off the eastern coast of Lake Huron and northeast of the Bluewater Bridge. He loved the outdoors, especially when he was pitchin’ the tent and sharing those awesome times around the campfire. And of course, wienies & marshmallows were the top items on the menu.

Ronald will also be remembered for the thoughtful and giving gentleman he was,…especially when he was doing a bit of snow-blowing. Yet there was no “bit” about the time he poured into clearing the snow. You see…it wasn’t just his yard that he plowed, but just about every neighbor’s yard in the vicinity as well. When they heard his machine fire up, they simply left their jackets hanging on the hook and watched the snow removal extravaganza unfold out of their picture windows. That was the person everyone knew him to be, a considerate and unselfish neighborhood friend who truly lived by the Golden Rule. And lastly, this short little bio would be sadly remiss if not for mentioning Ronald's pride & joy,...his 1983 Buick Riviera. A black exterior with a wine colored interior, the car simply oozed "class." Ronald was its original owner and he lived for showing it off at various events, especially the annual Woodward Dream Cruise. Sporting just 5000 miles after all these years, it truly was his showpiece and a blast from the past.  

A loving husband, father and grandfather, Ronald held his family in the highest regard and poured out his love in the most unconditional manner. He leaves behind a host of wonderful memories enjoyed with those he loved, moments to be embraced with each reflection shared. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally.

Ronald was the beloved husband of Lois. Dear father of Raymond (Kristen) Kibzey and Rodney Kibzey. Loving grandfather of Lucas, Max, Cam, and Sarah. Brother of Allen (Carol) Kibzey, and uncle of Ashley.

Visitation for Ronald will be held Sunday, March 8th from 3-9 pm at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd) in Warren. His Funeral Services will take place on Monday, 10:00 am at the funeral home.

Please share memories of Ronald at his guest book below.