Ronald Crandell

Ronald Lee Crandell, 70 of Cheboygan passed away on November 24, 2023, following two years of battling a myriad of health issues. Despite numerous setbacks, he continued to keep the faith that better days were coming with a strong sense of positivity.  He was deeply appreciative of all who supported him during his long journey.  Although some dreams could not be realized, he was grateful for many blessings, none more than the deep and faithful relationships of friends and family that were a constant source of encouragement and assistance.

Ron was born on October 24, 1953, in Cass  City, Michigan; the son of Dr. Harry and Betty Crandell. His  parents and brother, Chuck, preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Sue Gimble-Crandell, nephew Courtney Crandell(Jen) of Fort Collins, CO., Dan Gimble(Kelly) of Salt Lake City, Utah and Irene Crandell of Petoskey, MI.

Ron’s passions in life were University of Michigan Athletics, the  beauty, wonder and serenity of Northern Michigan(although winter became less favored every year), an abiding strong sense of justice, morality and kindness, his loving dogs, reading history and mystery novels and making jewelry, which he and his wife Sue would sell at Art Fairs across Northern Michigan.

He graduated Cum Laude from the University of Michigan in  1976, majoring in American Culture. Ron’s education, expertise  in colonial design and keen interest in history served him well in  managing the museum stores associated with Mackinac State Historic Parks. His 25-year tenure there was  guided by the philosophy of educating visitors while providing authentic reproductions, quality arts and crafts and  opportunities for local artisans to be part of a tradition steeped in quality. 

He helped his family operate the Voyageur Shoppe in Mackinaw City and Harbor Springs before taking the museum store manager position.

Ron was actively involved in public service, including the Harbor  Springs Chamber of Commerce, Mackinaw Area Library, and the  Cheboygan Arts Council and Historic Resource Commission.  Further, he served on the Cheboygan Area School Board for six  years and proudly chaired the bond campaign, which generated  critical revenue to fund area schools.

Ron will forever be remembered by his friends, family, and dogs 

for his sharp wit, intellect, kindness, and love for all animals.

A celebration of life will be held in June 2024 at the Headlands  Dark Sky Park in Mackinaw City. Additional information will be  subsequently provided as to the date and time. Memorial contributions can be made to the Children’s  Trail of Cheboygan.