Ronald Center was born in Akron, OH on June 17, 1956. He was one of five children born unto Ted and Frances Center. The family settled in Wixom, MI, where Ron would graduate from high school. Having always been an independent spirit; determined and valiant, and following in his father’s footsteps, Ron enlisted in the United States Navy. For over 35 years, he would serve his country, while traveling the globe, embracing other cultures; always ready to share his Midwestern ideals of friendship and family. During that time, he married, started a family of his own, and rose to the rank of Commander in the USN. Upon retiring aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, Ron went on to earn his Masters Degree from Columbia College, and then became a Manager with the Boeing Company. Ron was admired not only for his extraordinary accomplishments, but for his adventurousness, his quick wittedness, his big heart (especially for dogs), and his integrity. Ron was truly a shining example of what it means to be an honorable man. His time with us on Earth came to an end on May 31, 2020 at Banner Desert Medical Center in Mesa, AZ. His eldest daughter held his hand as he took his last breath. Ron is survived by his father, Ted; his daughters, Cynthia and Kate; grandson, Kaiden; former spouse, Nobuko; son-in-law, Joshua; many extended family and close friends to whom his loss is immeasurable, and who will forever be thankful for his presence; his guidance; his support; his example; his smile. Fair winds and following seas sir.
14 Comments To "Ronald Edward Center"
#1 Comment By Sherrie Miller On June 7, 2020 @ 12:00 am
I’m so sorry for your loss. My mom is Bobbie (Sherry) Shimp and her mom was Mary Shimp. I wish I had known him, he sounds like a wonderful person. My prayers to all of the family.
#2 Comment By karlene goedde On June 7, 2020 @ 12:00 am
DearTed and Family I am at a loss for words only to let you and your family know how very sorry I
am for your loss. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Take care
Karlene Goedde
#3 Comment By Brooke Porter On June 9, 2020 @ 12:00 am
I worked with Ron on two different occasions, lastly on Abraham Lincoln. Although we were not the closest of friends (I was much junior to him) he was always friendly and professional. I had so much respect for him and I am thankful for brief opportunity I had to work with him.
Warms thoughts and prayers to his family for healing and strength.
Fair winds and following seas Ron. We have the watch Shipmate.
#4 Comment By Sunni Rudd On June 10, 2020 @ 12:00 am
I am deeply shocked and saddened to see this news, as i knew Ron quite well as a friend while he worked at Boeing in Renton, WA before he moved to AZ. My now recently late husband and i and Ron were good friends. I kept saying i was going to come visit him, but still grieving the loss of my husband, just hadn’t done it. My heart aches for you all as i know this pain is so difficult to journey through. He was an amazing man! A good friend with a heart of gold. I have missed him ever sinced he moved. Now, there is another huge hole in my heart, knowing he is gone. I hope he and Joel are having a good time up there now again. Take good care of your precious selves