MARQUETTE - Robert Charles Ring, of Marquette, passed away Sunday, July 5, 2009, at his home, surrounded by his loving wife and family.

Born April 24, 1922, in Michigamme, son of the late Robert and Frances (Diedrich) Ring, Robert attended Iron Mountain High School and graduated in 1940. After graduating, he started working for Western Electric. In October of 1942, he joined the United States Marine Corps, serving for four years while stationed in the Marshall Islands, Samoa and occupied China. He was honorably discharged in 1946.

On Oct. 23, 1948, Robert married the former Laverne Hurley at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Escanaba. Robert was employed at Western Electric (Lucent) for 40 years. After his retirement, Robert and Laverne moved to Port Richey, Fla., and recently moved to Kalamazoo to spend time with their children. Robert and Laverne spent their summer months in "God's Country" - the UP.

"Ring" was happiest when he was surrounded by his family at his summer cottage at Bass Lake, relaxing on the deck with his "tini." He enjoyed golfing and was a past member of the Marquette Golf and Country Club. After retiring, he volunteered his time with the Telephone Pioneers of America, fixing phones for the disabled. Robert was a member of VFW Post No. 5670, Richard Jopling Post No. 44 of the American Legion and the Telephone Pioneers of America.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Laverne; six children, Donna Ring, Rosalie (Tom) Paccione, Paul Ring, Thomas (Sharon) Ring, Jane Ring and Margie Ring; 12 grandchildren, Sarah and Thomas Paccione, J.D. and Troy Ring, Nicole, Kristen, Megan and Kelly Ring, Alexis and Nathan Von Deak, Leah Ring and Julia Ring; and two great grandchildren, Tyler and Kailee Ring; a brother, Bruce (Lois) Ring; and four sisters, Arlene (Bill) Ullrich, Dolores Larsen, Cynthia Good, and Alice (Ray) Person.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Donald.

Honoring Robert's request, cremation has taken place. The family will receive relatives and friends at St. Louis the King Catholic Church in Harvey on Wednesday, July 8, from 11a.m. until 1 p.m. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 1 p.m. Wednesday afternoon with Rev. Ben Paris, pastor, as celebrant. Robert's grandchildren will serve as honorary escorts. A reception will follow in Father Gauthier Hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Lake Superior Hospice, 914 W. Baraga Ave., Marquette, MI 49855 or St Louis the King Catholic Church, 264 Silver Creek Road, Marquette, MI 49855.

Burial will be in Ft Custer National Cemetery in Battle Creek.

The Swanson Funeral Home is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at www.fassbenderswanson.com

This Marine lived a wonderful life. His family has every reason to be proud.
Rest in peace.

Semper Fidelis