Ron Knuth

Ron Knuth, age 85, was a man of unwavering faith, quiet strength, and remarkable perseverance. He faced a long and difficult battle with illness with the same determination, courage, and grace that defined his life until the Lord called him home on July 29. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, devotion, and enduring love for his family.

Born in Iowa City, Iowa, to Roland and Verna Knuth, Ron moved to Detroit with his family at the age of five. From an early age, he learned the value of hard work and craftsmanship alongside his father, a builder, lessons that shaped the way he lived his life.

Ron shared nearly 65 wonderful years of marriage with his high school sweetheart, Elaine. Together they raised four children, traveled the world, and built a family grounded in faith, love, and lasting traditions.

Ron began his career in the automotive machinery industry before purchasing Production & Equipment Company, which he owned and operated for more than 30 years. He built his business on trust, integrity, and genuine relationships, earning not only loyal customers but lifelong friends.

His love of all things mechanical began as a teenager when he and a friend bought, restored, and sold pre-war automobiles. That passion grew into building and racing drag cars and painting custom show cars with his brother, Mike. In his 50s, Ron discovered a love for motorcycling, riding both BMW and Harley-Davidson motorcycles well into his 70s.

Whether hunting with his son-in-law and grandsons, coaching Little League baseball and football, sharing one of his unforgettable stories, volunteering at the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, or serving through the Knights of Columbus, Ron found joy in spending time with others and quietly serving those around him.

One of Ron's greatest joys was time spent "up north" on the shores of Burt Lake. Together, he and Elaine built the family cottage, creating a place where generations gathered to make lifelong memories. Ron loved being on the water, teaching countless family members and friends to water ski and pulling generations of kids on tubes with an enthusiasm that, by today's standards, would probably qualify for the X Games. The cottage stands as a lasting reflection of his craftsmanship, generosity, and the deep love he had for his family.

Nothing brought Ron greater pride than watching his family grow. He was a proud grandfather to eleven grandchildren, celebrating each of their unique interests, talents, and accomplishments. Some are now married with families of their own, making him the proud great-grandfather of one and another on the way, while others are still growing into adulthood. No matter their age, Ron rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on. Whether it was soccer, hockey, cross-country, baseball, football, choir, or musical performances, he was happiest in the stands or audience.

Ron, aka Big Ron, was a legend among his kids’ friends. He was gifted with a large frame and so cut an imposing figure — he used this asset to gain attention and then teach others to approach situations by leading with kindness and humor first, but to always be prepared and “watch your six”! He partly learned this as a boxer for Allen Park High School and as a competition handgun marksman who won many titles in each. He said these arenas taught him discipline, patience, endurance, and humility — all of which ultimately served him well throughout his life’s challenges. Ron had a mind for strategy, too, so it was easy to understand why he enjoyed baseball so much. Evidence of this included Ron managing the ‘82 Plymouth Canton LL Rangers to a World Series Championship in two (lopsided) games! His overall mentality has been passed down to his grandkids, who share his love of competition and are driven to succeed but know that, win or lose, ice cream is just around the corner!

He is lovingly survived by his devoted wife, Elaine; his children David Knuth (Tammy), Suzanne Huth (Robert II), Erik Knuth ( Jacqueline), Cynthia Rochert ( Juergen); eleven cherished grandchildren David Knuth Jr (Taylor), Robert Huth, III (Amanda), Zachary Huth (Maria), Alyssa Huth ( Jack), Elizabeth Knuth, Alaina Rochert, Chas Knuth, Mae Knuth, Blaise Knuth, Mackinac Knuth, Reagan Rochert; one great-grandchild Robert Huth IV; his brother, Mike Knuth (Ann Marie); nephews, and many dear friends.

A visitation will be held at Schrader Howell Funeral Home, 280 South Main Street, Plymouth Michigan. A Funeral Mass celebrating Ron's life will be held at St. Kenneth's Catholic Church, 14951 North Haggerty Road, Plymouth Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, Development Office, 1820 Mt. Elliott, Detroit, Michigan 48207. Contribution envelopes will be available at Schrader-Howell. Contributions may be made online at: Capuchin Soup Kitchen

As the years passed, Ron's kind heart and gentle spirit became his hallmark. To know Ron was to love him.