Ronald L. Decker of Kentwood, MI, passed away Sunday, March 7, 2021. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Shirley (Owen) Decker, their children: Brian (Ellen) Rasmussen and Shawna (Jeff) Siegfried; four grandsons: William, Gabriel, Colin (Rasmussen), and Joshua (Siegfried); his brother: Terry Decker; nephew: Terry Jr. (Audra Jean) Decker; his uncle and aunt: Bill and Louise Gunn; and very dear friend: Craig (Barb) Ponne. He was preceded in death by his parents: Harley and Esther (Gunn) Decker of Morley, MI.

Ron grew up and resided in the Grand Rapids, MI area, where he earned his Master Mechanics license. He went on to work as a Field Service Technician for Progressive Blasting and Stiles Machinery, and ultimately retired from GE Aviation as an electrician in their test-build department.

In his spare time, he enjoyed Ham radio, where he received his Amateur license and built many long-distance friendships. He was an avid reader of automotive history, very passionate about cars, and greatly loved riding motorcycles with his friends. Other hobbies included fishing, boating, picnicking with Shirley, and spending Friday nights with their close friends. He is most affectionately known for his incredible breadth of knowledge and his willingness to always help others.

The family thanks Faith Hospice for their extraordinary care of Ron for months, which enabled him to remain at home and among loved ones as he desired. Not only were they exceptional professionals, they did so during a pandemic.

A celebration of Ron's life will be hosted the first weekend of June, where we will honor Ron's expressed desire to enjoy a picnic and have fun, rather than a funeral.