Ronald Crist

Ronald Allen Crist, age 81, of Cheboygan, Michigan, passed away June 13, 2025. Ron died peacefully after a long battle with dementia.

He was born on November 22, 1943, in Cheboygan to Boyd and Doris (Shessia) Crist, who preceded him in death.

Ron graduated from Cheboygan Area High School in 1963. He was previously married for many years to Roseann Crist and they had 3 children together.

Ron spent many years working for Michigan Consolidated Gas Company and later joined the family business, Crist Dredging & Seawall Company. While he was a hard worker, his true passion lay far beyond the workplace — in the beauty of nature, the peace of the wilderness, and the warmth of family.

He was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in hiking, remote camping, and fishing. He spent many child and adulthood vacations fishing for lake trout in the remote waters of Rawhide Lake in Canada and as often as possible brook trout fishing with his brother Gary on the cherished stream they named “Mud Creek”.

Ron found a deep connection with the natural world. He also had a lesser-known but heartfelt love for art — especially painting with watercolors — often inspired by the landscapes he explored.

Those who knew Ron will remember his gentle spirit, his quick and quiet wit, and his infectious laugh. He was devoted to those he loved. He believed in laughter, kindness, and the importance of being present with his family.

Ron is survived by his three children: Shane (Karen) Crist, Sonia Fineout (Mike Bloomer), and Tanaia (Jason) Berden.

He is also survived by his 3 brothers Gary (Diane ) Crist, Larry (Patty) Crist, & David Crist . He leaves behind 19 beloved grandchildren: Whitney, Linnaia, Ava, Annika, Walter, Ivan, Rayna, Clayton, Oren, Autumn, Daviita, Jed, Aiyanna, Vaughn; Ayrton, Kael, Brayden; Lydia and Ethan. He is also survived by 20 great grandchildren who also brought joy to his later years.

Ron will be deeply missed and forever remembered for the love he gave, the life he lived, and the peaceful trails he walked.

A memorial to celebrate Ron’s life will be held on a future date .

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Ron’s memory  to Save Mi Brook Trout.