Ronald H. Kangas

Ronald was born on July 22, 1941 to Wiljo and Lillian Kangas. Ronald graduated from the Republic High School in 1961, graduated college in Petersburg, IN with a degree in History and English. He then attended the University of Wyoming in Laramie and received a bachelor’s degree in teaching and taught school in Wyoming until he joined the Navy in 1971. Ron, lived the life he loved being on the submarines as Yeoman Chief Petty Officer. Bases in Pearl Harbor, he served in the Cold War in numerous submarine missions. He work at NATO Headquarters Europe for a number of years, living in Belgium and Italy before returning to Pearl Harbor. Before retirement he was sent to the Treasure Island, CA base. He proudly served the Navy for 21 years on the submarines and received many honorable mentions and commendations for his excellent service. He enjoyed serving his country, the Navy and traveling to many parts of the world. His body has been donated to Medical Science at the Universirty of Cincinnati. He will be buried at sea in Hawaii, his final wish.

Ron moved to his hometown, Republic, MI, where he owned a cabin on the Michigamme River. He enjoyed being with his family and friends and substitute teaching in various neighboring schools. Eventually he moved to Lebanon, OH to be with his extended family and multitude of friends. Ron was a life member of the VFW Post 6069 and served as their Chaplain for the last 14 years. He continued to spend every summer at his cabin by the river until his death. Ron’s family and friends have a treasure of memories of a “life well lived”.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother Brian J. Kangas. He is survived by sister, Kathleen (William) DeGenaro of Republic; brother, Kurt Kangas of Atlanta, GA, 3 nieces and 2 nephews, 3 grand nieces and 6 gran nephews, 2 great grand nieces, 2 great grand nephews and several special cousins.