March 11, 1935 – July 2, 2026
With deep sorrow, the family shares that Ronald “Ron” Macey passed away on July 2, 2026, at the age of 91.
Ron often mentioned that his life began with a miracle. He was born prematurely weighing just 2 pounds and 2 ounces, and he frequently recounted how the dedicated nuns at St. Joseph’s Hospital saved him. He particularly remembered one nun who cared for him with incredible dedication during those early days-a kindness his family always appreciated. Ron’s mother had hoped to introduce him one day to the nun who fought so hard for his survival. He also recalled how the local fire department brought extra oxygen to help keep him alive.
Aside from a short summer job at a grain elevator during his teenage years, Ron devoted his entire working life to the family business. Together with his parents Elgin and Dora Macey, he helped run Woods Meat Market and later Macey’s Foods. The stores were much more than just businesses; they were places where customers became friends, conversations flourished, and lifelong bonds formed. Ron believed in hard work and never shied away from it-often putting in long hours six days a week while raising his two sons. Sundays were reserved for family outings when he’d take the boys camping to enjoy nature together. When the family business closed its doors in 1989, Ron retired alongside his father after dedicating a lifetime to serving their community.
Retirement opened up a new chapter that Ron had always dreamed about. He made Trout Lake his permanent home and after Katherine joined him there in 1990, they turned their family cabin into the home they had always imagined. They enjoyed many wonderful years at the lake where Ron took great pride in maintaining his beautiful yard and large vegetable garden-especially relishing in growing winter squash. One of his proudest achievements was cultivating a massive 35-pound Hubbard squash. He approached retirement with the same strong work ethic he’d always known-cutting and splitting over 20 cords of firewood each year while keeping their long driveway clear of snow throughout winter.
Ron appreciated life’s simple pleasures: cooking meals for loved ones-with meat being the star of every meal; eagerly anticipating fishing season every spring; partridge hunting come fall; barbecues; bocce games; saunas; and trips to Duluth. He fondly remembered his time at Port Arthur Collegiate Institute (PACI), especially cruising around town with friends in his cherished convertible. With a wonderfully dry sense of humor, he never missed an opportunity to laugh at himself and often joked that he didn’t think he’d “make it to another birthday.”
Most importantly, Ron was deeply committed to his family. He took immense pride in his sons and grandchildren and cherished every moment spent with them.
He was preceded in death by his parents Dora and Elgin Macey; grandson Travis Giertuga; as well as sister-in-law Marilyn Anderson.
Katherine will forever miss her beloved husband and best friend. They first met in 1978 before marrying on July 21, 1993-and often smiled reminiscing about their lengthy courtship followed by their brief engagement and small wedding ceremony. Together they created a life filled with love, laughter, hard work, and countless wonderful memories.
Ron is survived by son Rob Macey; grandchildren Shane Macey (Mint) and Alex Macey (Tyler); son John Macey (Joelle); grandchildren Madison Giertuga (Dalton) and Juliet Macey; Katherine’s daughter Kristan Miclash (Manny) along with grandson Kyle Miclash; Katherine’s son Dale Axelson (Elizabeth) plus granddaughters Sophia Axelson (Daniel) and Linnea Axelson; brother-in-law Carl Anderson; brother-in-law Ed Anderson (Joyce); along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, neighbors, and dear friends.
The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Naqi, Dr. M. Ingves, and all the compassionate doctors, nurses, and staff at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre for their exceptional care towards Ron.
A private service will be held according to Ron’s wishes.
If desired, in lieu of flowers, direct donations in Ron’s memory can be made to Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation designated for Northern Cancer Fund or Lions Vision Care Centre would be greatly appreciated. On-line condolences may be expressed at www. sargentandson. com.
