Ronald A. "Goldy" Goldsmith

Ronald A. “Goldy” Goldsmith, 87, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. The son of Robert and Estelle (Burch) Goldsmith, Ronald was born in Lansing, MI on October 10, 1937.

Ronald graduated from Calumet High School in the Class of 1955. He would then go on to serve proudly in the United States Navy and was initiated as a Shellback after crossing the equator. During his time in the Navy, Ronald spent seventeen months at sea.

After his time in the service, Ronald held a dedicated career as a Roller Operator at National Steel until his retirement in 1998. He was a proud member of the United Steelworkers Union.

On November 28, 1970, Ronald was joined in Holy Matrimony with Olivia Degeneffe at Holy Rosary Church in Gary, IN. Together, they would create a family as they welcomed their children, Joe, Cathy, Rich and Steve.

Ronald was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed spending time in nature, whether it was skiing down a snowy mountain, ice skating, playing hockey, hunting ducks and pheasants, casting a line in a peaceful lake, or perfecting his swing on the golf course with his friends. One of the his most cherished hunting memories was a trip spent hunting in Saskatchewan with friends. These hobbies brought him great joy and fond memories.

Traveling was also something that Ronald looked forward to; including attending Broadway shows at the theater, relishing when he saw “In the Heights” in New York or “Hamilton” in Chicago. Ronald and his family also have cherished memories of trips to Europe or to Hawaii. Ron loved being on the water which was displayed in the many cruises he took; whether it was the ocean or Lake Latonka on his pontoon, many knew and loved him as Captain Ron.

Ronald was a man who enjoyed the simple things in life, including starting each day with a cup of hot coffee. He was also an active member of the Lake Bloomers Garden Club, serving as a past-president and he also served on the Lake Latonka Homeowners Association.

Ronald is survived by his loving wife of over 50 years, Olivia; children, Joe (Sandi) Goldsmith, Cathy (Henry) Berrones, Rich (Connie) Goldsmith, and Steve (Aimee) Goldsmith; nine grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; brother, Jim Goldsmith; along with numerous beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and godchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Estelle; and brothers, Richard Goldsmith and Robert Goldsmith.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2024 from 3-5PM EST at Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan Street, Plymouth, IN 46563. Funeral Services will immediately follow at 5PM EST with Pastor Brian Haase officiating.

A graveside service will take place at 10:30AM CST on Friday, November 22, 2024 at Graceland Cemetery, 1505 Morthland Dr., Valparaiso, IN 46383.