Ronald C. Green, Sr., 81, of Punta Gorda, Florida, passed away peacefully on June 20, surrounded by his loved ones following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on December 13, 1944, in Drangstedt, Germany, his birth name was Rainer Rudolf Schönwiesen. Ron was the son of Douglas and Gisela Green. After emigrating to the New York/New Jersey area as a child, he graduated from Ramapo High School. He later attended Rutgers University, where he earned a degree in engineering while serving in the Air Force ROTC program.

Ron served his country for 10 years in the United States Air Force, attaining the rank of Captain. A skilled Air Force pilot, he served with the Strategic Air Command, piloted B-52 bombers, and flew rescue helicopter missions during the Vietnam War. His military honors included the Air Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with five devices, National Defense Service Medal, Air Force Longevity Service Award, and Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon.

Following his military service, Ron used his engineering background in project management with a variety of industrial and construction companies. Along the way, he earned his Master of Business Administration degree from the University of North Florida.

Ron will be remembered for his engineering mind. He liked to know how things worked and was very handy around the house, yard, and workshop. He enjoyed trains and even had his own model railroad at one time. He loved cheering on the Tampa Bay Rays with Chris and his family. Ron also became quite the traveler, whether on many cruises with family, international trips with Chris, or spending time in the mountains of North Carolina and Virginia.

On family vacations, he always made sure to pass out crisp $20 bills to the grandkids for the arcades. In recent years, he enjoyed retirement in the Emerald Pointe community and was always up for a card or board game.

Ron took great pride in the many creative, academic, and athletic accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. Whenever he could, he attended graduations, Boy Scout events, baseball and football games, dance recitals, band performances, and other important family events. He never missed sending a birthday or holiday card, and his handwritten thank-you notes will be cherished. In his later years, Ron enjoyed watching Fox News, following the Republican Party, and debating current events. He also actively followed the stock market and loved giving advice on building a good portfolio.

Most importantly, Ron was a believer in Jesus Christ and had placed his trust in Him. For many years, he was active in the Lutheran Church and participated in men’s groups within the church. At the end of his life, he was quoting Scripture and confirming his belief in Christ. While we are sad today, we take comfort in knowing that we will see him again, healthy and whole.

Ron is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Christine; his brother, Gilbert (Lori); his sister, Helga (Alastair); his daughter, Ginger (Ronald); his son, Ronald Jr. (Wendy); his son, Robert (Jocelyn); and his stepdaughter, Heidi. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren whom he loved dearly: Cassandra (Trace), Justin, Tyler, Garrett, Joshua, Elsa, Ethan, Heath, and Hope.

A service to honor Ron’s life will be held on Wednesday, June 24, at Sarasota National Cemetery. Attendees should arrive at 10:30 a.m. and queue in the lane containing Ron’s name. The service will begin at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Tidewell Hospice in memory of Ronald Green.

However you knew him — Ron, Dad, Papa Ron, or Uncle — his love, wit, strength, and memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.