Ronald Keith Mennell, age 74 of Hastings, Michigan, passed away Wednesday, July 26, 2017 at Spectrum Health, Pennock Hospital.

 

Ron was born September 19, 1942 in Battle Creek, MI to Alfred and M. Maxine (Gladstone) Mennell.

 

Ron grew up in Battle Creek and graduated from Battle Creek Central. After graduation he enrolled in the Air Force and was stationed for 4 years at Vandenburg Air Force Base in California. Upon discharge he returned to Battle Creek and joined the Battle Creek City Police Department. He liked to tell of his time as an undercover narcotics agent. He transferred to the Hastings City Police Department when he moved his family to Hastings. In 1978 Ron rejoined the Michigan Air National Guard, Battle Creek Post were he served as a Recruiter for many years before using his police training and becoming a Master Sergeant in the Air Guard Military Police. During his time in the Military Police he had the honor of guarding Air Force One and meeting President George Bush.

 

Ron retired in 1996 after 20 plus years with the Military. He was currently a Trustee for Hastings Charter Township. Ron was a member of American Legion Post 45 and enjoyed his 50 plus years of motorcycle riding. He was also known for his gruff outside but teddy bear heart for little children.

 

Ron is survived by his wife, Anita, sons; Ronald A. (Tina) Mennell, Dennis Mennell and Christopher (Symone) Mennell. Stepsons, Scott McKelvey, Nathan (Kathryn) McKelvey and step-daughter, Sarah (Jacob) Snow and brother Warren Jones. He is also survived by 19 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

 

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to American Legion Post #45, 2160 S. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058.

 

Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 30, 2017 from 3-5 pm at the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Funeral services for Ron will be held on Monday July 31, 2017 at the First Presbyterian Church, 405 N. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, MI. A one hour visitation will be held from 10-11 am prior to the Funeral Service at the Church. A luncheon will be provided.  Interment will take place on Tuesday, August 1, 2017 at 11:00 am at Fort Custer National Cemetery with full military honors.

 

Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings.  To leave an online condolence visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net.