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Obituary
Ronald Anthony Smerigan, age 74, passed away on August 30, 2026, at home, surrounded by family, in Newport, Michigan. Born on July 4, 1952, in Detroit, Michigan. Ronald’s life was filled with a deep love for his family and friends, passion for music, sports, and travel, and pride in keeping a beautiful home.
Ron grew up in Melvindale, Michigan where he played many youth sports and made a name for himself as a star athlete playing high school football. He continued his love for sports by coaching football, playing competitive travel softball, and golfing.
In 1973, Ron met the love of his life Connie while socializing with mutual friends at The Village Bar in Allen Park, Michigan. Two years later they married. As their family grew, Ron returned to school to get his associate of science degree which he used to build a career as an Environmental Nuclear Engineer with DTE.
Known to many as “Big Ron”, he made lasting memories vacationing with friends and family ‘up north’ to the family cabin, to states across America, and multiple countries.
Ron had a knack for conversation and made fast and lasting friendships everywhere he went. It was not uncommon for him to run into someone he knew no matter where he traveled.
As a die-hard fan of Michigan sports, Ron faithfully cheered for the Lions, the Michigan Wolverines, and the Tigers. He also cherished holidays and the bonding in preparing traditional family recipes. He celebrated his July 4th birth with pride, hosting memorable pool parties that brought together loved ones.
Ron took pleasure in books, TV, and movies, especially westerns and fantasy, which he used as inspiration to become a great storyteller himself. He also loved music from his generation, but none greater than The Beatles.
Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Nataline Smerigan; his brothers Richard (Judy) and Anthony Smerigan, his sister Nataline Smerigan, and Kurt Fritz, partner of Debbie Smerigan.
He is survived by his devoted wife Constance Smerigan; his children, Ronald (Elizabeth Wright) Smerigan, Robin (Dennis) Penn, and Rashel Smerigan; and his treasured grandchildren, Annabel Penn, Raelynn Penn, and Bryan Angel. He also leaves behind his brother Larry (Judy) Smerigan, Debbie Smerigan, Denise (Ed) Sikora, and many nieces and nephews who will fondly remember his warmth and kindness.
As we remember Ronald, we celebrate a life rich in love, laughter, and the company of those he held dearest.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Ron’s memory to the Karmanos Cancer Foundation (https://bloodcancerunited.org/regions/mi-in) and/or the American Lung Association (https://www.lung.org/mi).
