Ron Uzarski

A true West Sider! Ronald Michael Uzarski was born on September 28, 1948, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The second of Zygfred and Virginia (Wysocki) Uzarski’s seven children, Ron grew up on the lower WestSide of Grand Rapids on Watson Street. The family attended Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, where Ron attended elementary school. Sadly, when Ron was only eight years old, his father tragically died while working as a firefighter. The family received support from their community, and the family bond grew even stronger, becoming a solid foundation they shared for the rest of their lives.

While attending West Catholic High School, Ron played football and ran track. After graduating high school, he continued his education at Grand Rapids Junior College before transferring to Western Michigan University.

Ron tried his hand at teaching but quickly moved on to other endeavors. While working on the line at Westinghouse Furniture factory, Ron discovered a better opportunity in real estate and became a realtor for many years. When the housing industry changed in the 2000s, he moved on to driving a school bus for Dean Transportation. He enjoyed being a bus driver and being funny with the kids.

Over the years, Ron found companionship, first marrying Gail Dauser. He and Gail became parents when their daughter, Jennifer, was born. He would later marry Pat Mazurkiewicz, and Ron’s family grew when their son, Kevin, was born. In his later years, Ron met Marti Steffens at the Polish Falcons Hall. He and Marti shared many years of companionship.

A naturally social person, Ron was always looking for fun. He especially enjoyed cars, sports, and karaoke. His love of cars began in his youth when, because his father died, he had the first family car. A longtime Detroit sports fan, Ron enjoyed cheering on the Lions, Pistons, and Red Wings. He also loved playing golf. Ron enjoyed karaoke so much that he purchased his own machine. He was a confident singer who enjoyed a lot of different music. The Beatles were among his favorites, as was any classic rock.

Like many in his family, Ron was always proud of his Polish heritage and the community he grew up in. He enjoyed the annual Pulaski days and frequently gathered with friends and participated in various activities at the Polish Falcon Hall. For nearly 40 years, a big event Ron looked forward to each year was “Brothers Club,” when he and his brothers, cousins, and nephews would gather and have a great time.

Ron was devout in his faith, practicing at Sacred Heart of Jesus, St. James Church, Holy Family in Caledonia, and most recently, St. Robert of Newminster in Ada. Dedicated to his faith, he was a third-order Franciscan and participated in several Bible Study groups over the years.

After recently suffering from health problems, Ron passed away on December 3, 2024, with his brother at his side.

Preceded in death by his parents, Zygfred and Virginia; his siblings, Diane Richmond (Jerry, deceased) Bob Uzarski and Zyg Uzarski and his brother-in-law, Dave Ziegert. Ron is survived by his brothers, Steve (Linda) and Paul (Liz); his sister Dolores Ziegert; sisters-in-law, Krys Uzarski and Linda Uzarski; Marti Steffens, his longtime companion; his daughter, Jennifer Uzarski; grandchildren, Taylor Uzarski, Kingston Murphy and Cooper Murphy); his son, Kevin Uzarski (Brittany), grandchildren Benjamin and Otto; and many nieces and nephews. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 AM on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at St. Robert of Newminster Catholic Church, 6477, Ada Dr. in Ada, MI. A green burial will take place in Ridgeview Memorial Gardens, Grandville. All are welcome to meet the family at the church on Wednesday from 10:00 AM until the Mass begins. Donations to a charity of your choice are appreciated. Please see his webpage at www.heritagelifestory.com