Saturday, June 15, 2024
Memorial for Ronald Kotynski
January 1953 - June 2024
It is with a heavy heart that I heard the news of the passing of my dear friend, Ronald Kotynski. Ron and I became fast friends in high school, bonding over our shared sense of humor and a less-than-stellar performance in chemistry class during our junior year. Although we chose to live on opposite sides of the country after high school, the times we spent together on my trips back to Michigan were filled with joy and laughter.
Ron was always quick to make me smile, a trait that forged our friendship from the start. Our teenage years were a whirlwind of double dates, misadventures, and unforgettable moments. We even ran for class president and vice president, though our political aspirations were less about ambition and more about the fun of doing it together.
Some of my fondest memories include our spontaneous hitchhiking trip to Perrysburg, Ohio, carp fishing with a bow and arrow where we only managed to shoot dead carp, and a camping trip where the highlight was a raccoon stealing our donuts. Our high school prom was another unforgettable night; Ron and I, in our top hats and tails, felt like the coolest guys in the room. We thought we were invincible, and in many ways, the spirit of those days remains timeless.
Over the years, our reunions were often hosted by our mutual friend, Tom McLeod. Sadly, with Tom's passing, those gatherings have come to an end. The last time I saw Ron was about three years ago during one of my visits to Michigan. We were dining with Tom’s widow, Candy, and his daughter, Wendy. That evening, I had a close call when I started choking on a piece of steak. As my world grew dark, I heard Candy’s voice telling me to stand up, and Ron was right there. He performed the Heimlich maneuver, saving my life as a piece of meat flew out and landed on his shoe. Ron, with his usual grace, simply brushed it off and we continued our meal as if nothing had happened. That was Ron—unassuming, heroic, and always there when you needed him.
Ron used to drive a 1964 Comet, and I can still see him peeling away, tires spinning, with the windows rolled down, shouting, “Let the good times roll!” That phrase encapsulates Ron perfectly. He always knew how to make the best of any situation and bring a smile to your face.
Ron, you were a wonderful friend who always knew how to bring joy into my life. Your memory will forever bring a smile to my face. Until we meet again, let the good times roll.
With heartfelt memories, Bill Range
