Ronald Edward Birkhold

Ronald Edward Birkhold, age 75, of Huntington, Indiana, passed away and went to be with the Lord on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Envive of Huntington surrounded by his family.

Ron was born on July 9, 1950, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to the late Ted and Doris (Maat) Birkhold. He married Valerie Wetherbee on June 27, 1987. She survives and resides in Huntington.

Ron graduated from Centreville High School in Michigan in 1968. He dedicated 37 years of service to General Motors, where he held the role of Superintendent prior to his retirement. He attended SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Huntington.

In addition to his wife, Valerie, Ron is survived by four sons: Jeremy Bontrager of Lagrange, Indiana; Nathan (Heather) Bontrager of Eaton Rapids, Michigan; Ryan (Susan) Bontrager of Jackson, Michigan; and Philip (Ashley) Birkhold of Lakeland, Florida. He is also survived by one daughter, Shannon Birkhold (Dylan Tolbert) of Portage, Michigan; one brother, Mike (Patty) Birkhold of Spring Lake, Michigan; eight grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.

Ron was actively engaged in his community, including more than 20 years of service as a volunteer firefighter. He had a lifelong passion for the outdoors and enthusiastically embraced activities such as snowmobiling, motorcycling, jet skiing, diving, hunting, boating, and traveling. He often remarked, “I’ve done it all.”

Following retirement, Ron spent much of his time golfing and was a member of Arbor Trace Golf Club in Marion, Indiana. He also enjoyed time in the woods pursuing his interest in Bigfoot research and was a member of the Indiana Bigfoot Research Organization (IBRO).

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Huntington County Humane Shelter, in care of McElhaney Funeral Home, 715 N. Jefferson Street, Huntington, Indiana 46750.

McElhaney Funeral Home, 715 N. Jefferson Street, Huntington, Indiana, is entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.mcelhaneyhartfuneralhome.com

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