Page 14 - Wayne Dispatch Pages

December 27, 1946 – Jordan and Hunter. Trips to Colorado to visit
August 6, 2025 them were among his most cherished experi-
Ronald Manshardt, ences.
78, of Wayne, Michigan, A true emblem of the city of Wayne, Ron was
passed away peacefully often seen sitting on a bench outside City Hall,
in Ann Arbor under the- visiting the library, or treating himself to ice
care of hospice, sur- cream at the local Dairy Queen. He loved
rounded by family. music, attending concerts and community
A lifelong resident of Wayne, Ron attended music events whenever he could. Many will re-
Wayne Memorial High School, where he was member him sitting in his garage with the door
a varsity letterman in both baseball and foot- open, ready to greet arriving friends and fam-
ball, earning honorable mention All-State. ily—or to wave goodbye from that same spot.
From 1966 to 1969, Ron proudly served in the Ron’s quick wit and natural sense of humor
United States Marine Corps, First Battalion, made him a joy to be around. He had a knack
9th Marines, during the Vietnam War. He was for a well-timed quip and a playful remark, al-
a Purple Heart recipient, a testament to his ways bringing smiles to those around him.
bravery and sacrifice for his country. Though Ron faced many challenges in life, he
Following his service, Ron began a long career met them with courage, resilience, and a spirit
at Ford Motor Company, where he later re- that never quit. He leaves behind two loving
tired. daughters, a son-in-law, two grandchildren, a
Ron’s family and friends were incredibly proud nephew, sister-in-law, and three siblings who
of his 16 years of sobriety, a milestone that will forever treasure his memory.
allowed him to spend more quality time with Ron lived by the words of his favorite quote:
loved ones and create lasting, beautiful mem- “Get busy living or get busy dying.”
ories. Nothing brought him more joy than his A Celebration of Life will be held at a later
family—especially his beloved grandchildren, date.

14 · September 2025 · The Wayne Dispatch