Ronald Hofstra

In this hectic day and age, it is easy to get so wrapped up in our complicated lives that we forget the simple joys that each new day unfolds. Ronald N. Hofstra lived with an appreciation for the little wonders that make life seem grand. Although Ron had special needs, the ways he quietly reflected and approached life with a touch of child-like humor is truly an inspiration.

On November 11, 1942, most national headlines described how World War II was being waged in Europe. However, these troubles were far removed from the small town of Muskegon, Michigan. On this chilly autumn day Nicholas and Anna (Newman) Hofstra happily welcomed their son, Ronald, into the world. The family was complete with two boys, Ronald and Randall.

In addition to Ron’s biological family, there were always many caretakers that were close to him because he spent most of his life in care facilities due to his special needs. For a long time Ron resided at a care facility in Muskegon. Then in 1992, he moved to a home in Byron Center where he lived the rest of his life. Ron did not communicate verbally, but there were many creative ways that he used to get his point across. He did know some sign language, but those that were familiar with him and cared for him knew his needs before he even signed.

Ron resided at his care facility the longest of any of the tenants. Therefore, he earned the title, “The Man.” This nickname was befitting of Ron because he was generally easygoing and content. Ron especially enjoyed feeling comfortable. So much so that he typically adorned sweat pants. Even on hot days, Ron would pull his sweat pants up to his knees. Even though it may have looked a little silly, he preferred his comfy sweats over shorts.

One of Ron’s favorite hobbies was people watching. He would sit and relax on the back deck at the house and observe the passers by. Sometimes staff members would accompany him. Often he would enjoy a cup of coffee as he serenely watched. Ron was particularly fond of coffee.

Another of Ron’s pastimes was watching tennis on television. Although he found tennis most fascinating, he faithfully watched drama-filled soaps each afternoon. He was also quite amused by the cartoon, SpongeBob. Even though Ron was mostly quiet, his laugh was big and boisterous and emanated from his belly. The sound was contagious with cheer and could bring joy to a whole room.

Physically, Ron was a strong man. This was apparent from the firm hand shakes he gave to welcome guests. Ron also had an appetite to match his strength. He loved food and he loved to eat. Some of his favorite dishes were pizza, hotdogs, and potato salad.

Tragically Ron’s brother, Randall, was diagnosed with leukemia. Ron bravely and generously donated his bone marrow to prolong his brother’s life. It was Ron’s special way of giving back; a gift that will never be forgotten.

As Ron’s surviving family dwindled over the years, his health began to decline and his strength began to fade. Sadly Ron passed away on Wednesday, June 18, 2008.

Ron really cherished the little things in life that are so important, and yet so often overlooked. He loved the comfort of a stretchy waistband, the hustle and bustle of strangers going about their day, the steam coming off of a good cup of coffee, or just the simple comedy of a children’s cartoon show. He did not have words to convey his carefree demeanor, but the way he lived his life is an amazing example for us all.

Ronald N. Hofstra died June 18, 2008. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nicholas and Anna Hofstra, and by his brother, Randall Hofstra. A service to celebrate Ron’s life will be held on Thursday, June 26 at 1 p.m. at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home – Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Drive NW, Grand Rapids, MI. For those who wish, memorial contributions to the Moka Foundation are appreciated. To share a memory or sign the online register book, please visit www.lifestorynet.com.