Obituary - Ronald Leroy Kinder

Ronald Leroy Kinder passed away Feb. 19, 2023, at the age of 87.

Ron was born in Havre, MT, June 9, 1935, to Murvel and Ellen Kinder of Rudyard, MT. Ron was the first of four children. He would remain very close to his parents and siblings throughout their lives. Ron graduated from Rudyard High School and married Julianne Griffin. Together they had five children. After having lived in several areas of northern Montana they would eventually make their home in Rudyard where Ron would become an active member of the community and run several businesses.

He was heavily involved in the Jaycees, the Commercial Club, a school board member, volunteer fireman and an EMT. Of all of his jobs and business pursuits, he loved farming and working the land most of all. When he was given the opportunity to farm the land his grandfather Alfred Een homesteaded, he worked nights farming while working as a butcher at Sanvik Brothers Grocery during the day. Soon after, he would commit himself to farming full-time. He was very mechanically inclined, and this served him well throughout his life. There was nothing he couldn't repair or rebuild if the situation required it. He had the kind of industriousness and ingenuity that people of his generation are known for. He liked to whistle while he worked and could be heard whistling a happy tune while working in the shop late at night.

Ron was very proud of his family. He taught his children the value of hard work and the belief that anything was possible if you were willing to put in the effort.

Later in life, he married Sue Potter in Rudyard where they lived for a time before moving to Great Falls where he went into real estate and served on the Great Falls Planning Commission.

Ron enjoyed bowling, was a very talented ice skater, enjoyed photography and passed that on to his children. He loved classic cars and country music. He was kind-hearted and generous. He enjoyed being a father and husband, as well as a vital part of the community he grew up in. His kindly demeanor and general good nature will be missed by all.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Murvel and Ellen; sisters, Jackie and Pat; son Lynn; and his second wife, Sue.

Ron is survived by his brother, Wayne; first wife, Julianne; three sons, Greg, Gerry, and Kenny; daughter, Ronda; 16 grandchildren; and 27 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Great Falls Animal Shelter at http://www.greatfallsmt.net/animalshelter. There will be a celebration of his life at the Beacon in Great Falls on Thursday, March 2, starting at 4:30 p.m. ALL ARE WELCOME! Time, date, and details of his memorial service will be forthcoming.

Condolences for the family may be shared online at https://www.OConnorFuneralHome.com .