Ronald James Baerlocher, age 83, of Roscommon, died in Grayling on Monday, September 12, 2022.
Ron was born November 27, 1938, in Roscommon, the son of John and Violet (Dilts) Baerlocher. Ron’s uncle, George Kestenholtz, raised Ron as if he were his own son, giving him the opportunity to grow up with the appreciation of the outdoors. He spent a lifetime of fishing on the South Branch of the AuSable River, and hunting in all the nearby woods, which he then shared that passion with his sons and grandchildren. As a young man, Ron’s work life began working in the woods, logging for Frosty Wyckoff and the Fishell brothers. He married Janet M. Strang on October 14, 1961, in Traverse City. He served in the US Army for two years. Ron was proud that he had built his own house in 1967 in Brookside subdivision. When Ron returned from the service, he worked in the grocery business as a manager for A&P, Ames IGA, Northern Supermarkets – Carter’s IGA. After 40 years, he retired in 2001. Ron then worked part-time for Kirtland Community College as a custodian until 2006. Ron was a longtime member of Higgins Lake Baptist Church.
Ron will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his children: Randy (Lisa) Baerlocher of Roscommon, Brad (Jennifer) Baerlocher of Rochester Hills, Jeff Baerlocher of Roscommon, former daughter-in-law, Trish Baerlocher of Roscommon; grandchildren: Jason (Desiree) of Roscommon, Katie Baerlocher of Roscommon, Madison Baerlocher of Houghton; great-grandchildren: Lillian, Melanie, Molly Baerlocher, Reid and Grant Drake; Janet’s twin sister, Joyce Maidens; as well as many other relatives and friends.
Ron is preceded in death by his parents; and his beloved wife, Janet.
Family and friends will gathered from 11:00 – 1:00 pm, until the time of the Funeral at 1:00 pm, on Monday, September 19, 2022, at Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, 143 Lake Street, Roscommon, Michigan 48653. Pastor Ken Marsh will be officiating.
Ron will be laid to rest at Pioneer Cemetery, South Branch Township, Michigan, following the funeral.
The family prefers memorial contributions be made in Ron’s name to Roscommon Gerrish-Higgins Alumni Scholarship Fund, of the Roscommon County Community Foundation, or, Higgins Lake Baptist Church.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.
Please share a memory or a message online at wagnerfunerals.com
