Ronald C. Bruch

Ronald Charles Bruch, 80, of Kalamazoo, MI, passed away on November 15, 2024, after an extended illness. He was the loving husband of Mary Emily Bruch, his best friend forever. Born on December 10, 1943 in Rochester, PA, the son of Charles David and Lucille (Cromis) Bruch along with his stepmother Charlotte Gulick Bruch. 

He was united in marriage with Mary Emily (LaBadie) on December 29, 1964, in Binginham, New York. Together they parented and loved three wonderful children. His son, RJ, has this to say about his Dad. It’s difficult to put into words my feelings when I reminisce of my fond memories growing up, including life skills that you taught me, pushing me to finish college, and have a successful career. You succeeded in teaching us how to move forward when life dealt us a harsh reality when my sister, Amy, was taken from us so suddenly. You were a role model that I could always look up to and know that you were always there for your family. You made sacrifices in order that your family would always have what it needed or wanted. For all of this, I am grateful and thankful that you were my father. Thank you for all that you have done and for being the best father that a son could ask for. His daughter, Marlo, has this to say about her Dad. I will always cherish all the time that my Dad spent with RJ, myself, and Amy. When he was not at work he devoted himself to family time that included vacations at the ocean, historical places, nature excursions at parks and Grandma’s cottage in PA. He was always there for our Mom. He along with my Mother helped us to move forward with our education and careers when God chose to take our sister, Amy, home. He kept me close and gave me the extra love and support I needed.

In high school he won the first prize science award with a demonstration concerning the cellular mechanics of mammalian reproduction. As a Boy Scout he learned much about our natural world while earning numerous badges. Upon graduation from high school he enlisted in the U.S. Army at the age of 17 and completed his training at Brooke Army Medical Center, Ft. Sam Houston , Texas where he earned the rifle marksman award. From there he served at the First US Army Med Center, New York, N.Y. as a Medical Lab Specialist. After his honorable discharge from the military he worked as a histological technician in a hospital laboratory, as a printer in the printing industry for 40 years and attended community college. As a hobby he was a master craftsman in the process of techniques of 18th century American furniture styling and construction as well as restoration, particularly Queen Anne furniture. His grandfather, David Bruch, was a self-employed craftsman in the business of antique restoration.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary Emily, their children Ronald Jon (RJ) and his wife Rhonda of Norton Shores, Marlo Dolores and her companion David Ryan of Kalamazoo. His three grandchildren, Ronald Durga, Zachary Bruch and Zari Bruch were shining stars in his life playing games and staging Easter egg hunts for them. He was preceded in death by his youngest precious daughter, Amy Diane waiting in heaven, his younger brother, Richard C. Bruch, as well as his parents, and our many pets. 

With the deepest gratitude and appreciation we thank all of the employees and volunteers of Centrica Hospice who supported us through this heartbreaking journey. The many nurses, (Kelly) aides, (Cassidy) Marcel Pichot our chaplain, Brittiney our caseworker, our volunteers Bev Rindler and George Hebben of Centrica. Fr. Ben Huynh who could help Ron smile. Our special neighbors who lovingly volunteered their services Lydia Hines who sat with Ron and for her unwavering support, compassion, friendship. Paul Hosman for his visits to Ron and helpfulness. Our friends of 50 plus years who visited and supported us, Neil and Norma Oliver and Barb and Dave Wiebenga. Our dear friends Pam and Bill Manus.

Please make donations to the SPCA and the World Wildlife Fund.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Monday, December 2, 2024, at 11:00 AM at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 1150 W. Centre Avenue, Portage, with an hour to greet the family prior.