Ronald Dale Prosser

Ronald Dale Prosser, age 80, of Schoolcraft, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, April 20, 2026. He was born on February 11, 1946, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, the son of Hazel Williams.

Following high school, Ron married Yvonne Drake on November 12, 1965. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the United States Navy and was deployed to Vietnam. He served aboard the USS Duncan, a destroyer-class ship that saw combat during the conflict. During his time in service, his daughters, Wendy and Janet, were born. Ron went on to proudly serve his country for nearly 30 years, retiring from the Navy Reserves.

While serving in the Reserves, Ron earned his Journeyman's Card and built a career as a skilled millwright, working at the Vicksburg Paper Mill and American Axle.

Later in life, Ron reconnected with an old school friend, Cindy DeLano. Their story rekindled at the Vicksburg Beer and Brat Festival in 1980, where a shared dance to Anne Murray's "Could I Have This Dance" marked the beginning of a beautiful new chapter. The two were united in marriage on November 28, 1980, in Kalamazoo, and went on to share 45 loving years together.

In 1988, Ron and Cindy built their dream home-a beautiful log cabin just outside of Schoolcraft. There, they created countless memories, especially through their shared love of Corvettes and participation in their local Corvette club.

Ron was a man of many talents and endless projects. He held a pilot's license and enjoyed flying from the airstrip just across from his home, even building his own biplane. He also built a large cider press, and each year the family would gather to turn thousands of apples into homemade cider. Above all, Ron cherished time spent with his children and grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 45 years, Cynthia Prosser; his mother; his foster parents, Sylvester "Vet" and Ollie Jennings; and his brother, James McPherson.

Left to cherish his memory are his children: Wendy (Steve) Pheils, Janet Mendocha, Angie Heath, Jon Kibler, and Kori (Jeff) Coleman; eleven grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; many beloved nieces and nephews; and special friends and neighbors, Hap and Dave.

Memorial contributions may be made to Veterans Helping Veterans SWMI, with envelopes available at the funeral home.

In accordance with the family's wishes, cremation has taken place and a committal service will be held at Vicksburg Cemetery on Monday, May 11, 2026 at 12:00 noon.

Ron will be remembered for his ingenuity, his adventurous spirit, and the deep love he had for his family and the life he built with his own two hands.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Ron's guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.

The Prosser family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097. 269-649-1697.