Ronald F. Katowich

Ronald F. Katowich, 68, of St. Joseph, passed away Monday June 13, 2005 at Lakeland Hospital in St. Joseph. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 12:00 Noon, Friday, June 17, 2005 at Riverview Park with Rev. Robert Moss of The First Church of God officiating. Follow the signs within the park for the exact location. Casual attire is requested. Military Rites will be conducted by Coloma American Legion Post #362, VFW Post #1137 of Benton Harbor and VFW Post #6803 of Watervliet. A time of food & fellowship will follow the service. Memorials may be made to the donor?s choice. Those wishing to share a memory or sign the guest book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Ron was born August 5, 1936 in Benton Harbor to Frank & Eleanor (Walters) Katowich. He graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1954. He served his country in the United States Navy from 1961-1963. Ron was employed at Clark Equipment in Benton Harbor retiring in 1991 after 38years. He was also employed part-time at Paul?s Shell in St. Joseph for 17 years. In his spare time, Ron enjoyed woodworking, tending to his vegetable garden, golfing, and most of all spending time with his children & grandchildren. Ron is survived by three sons-Jason (Lacy) Katowich of Mishawaka, IN, Todd Katowich of Las Vegas, NV, Ryan (Lisa) Katowich of St. Joseph; one daughter Sara (Joe) Batson of Greenville, MI; four grandchildren-Lauren & Grace Katowich, Hannah Batson, Samuel Katowich; his mother Eleanor Katowich of St. Joseph; two sisters-Sandy (Roy) Brandt of Benton Harbor, and Barbara (Dennis) Grams of St. Joseph. He was preceded in death by his father Frank on June 12, 1994.