He was born Nov. 13, 1936, in National Mine, son of the late Thomas and Ruth (Blight) Champion. Ron grew up and attended school in National Mine. He proudly served our country in the United States Army, serving in active duty in the Korean Conflict, from 1954 until his honorable discharge in 1957.

Ron was an active member of the Uren-Cooper-Johnson American Legion Post 50 in Iron Mountain for many years, as well as the Sons of the American Legion. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Iron Mountain.

Ron enjoyed many hobbies including playing golf, playing softball for Cleveland Cliffs where he even pitched a no-hitter. He loved sports including the Detroit Lions and the Detroit Tigers.

Ron was the best grandpa ever. He loved his country and his Lord and will be missed by his family and many friends.

Survivors include his ex-wife, Patricia (Rudness) Champion of Iron Mountain; three daughters, Linda Hupp of Kingsford, Sandra (Brian) Lindholm of Iron Mountain, and Sherry (Marc Kulman) Champion of Menasha, Wis.; one brother, Roy (Glida) Champion of Maryland; four grandchildren, Crystal (Wil), Stacey, Brandon and Peyton; three great-grandchildren, Colten, Soren and Ivory; and by numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Ron was preceded in death by three brothers, Tunor, Samuel and Clyde Champion, and by three sisters, Helen, Alice and Janice.

Visitation will be held Saturday, Aug. 22, from 12:30 until 1 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Iron Mountain. The Uren-Cooper-Johnson American Legion Post 50 will accord military honors prior to the service.

Funeral services will be Saturday at 1 p.m. at the church. Pastor Walter Reichle will officiate.

Burial will take place in Ishpeming Cemetery. Due to Covid-19, masks will be required in the church.

You may leave a condolence or tribute for Ron’s family online at www.JacobsFuneralHomes.com.

The family has chosen the Jacobs Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Iron Mountain to honor Ron’s legacy of life.