Ronald Schindel (Grandpa Ron) of Fort Frances, Ontario, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2025, surrounded by love and with family by his side. He will be deeply missed by his family and by the countless friends whose lives he touched. Though too many to name, each of you knows who you are, and you will always hold a place in Ron’s heart.
Ron was born in Morden, Manitoba, on June 2, 1939. Early in life, he made his way to Northwestern Ontario, first settling in Marathon where he worked at the mill. He later moved to Fort Frances, where he built a long and fulfilling career as an engineer and maintenance supervisor at the Kraft Mill, remaining there until his retirement
Despite facing health and mobility challenges for many years, he never allowed them to prevent him from living a full and meaningful life. With his characteristic determination, he always found a way to make things work. During the last eight years of life he was supported with love and devotion by his daughter Colleen, who returned to Fort Frances to be by his side.
He was predeceased by the love of his life wife Diane Schindel; his parents Hertha Schwartz and Adolph Schindel; stepdad Robert Buelow; brother Robert Buelow; sisters Caroline Brown, Sharon Babey, Linda Hawes; and stepson Jay Woods.
He was a devoted husband to Diane and proud father of his children David, Colleen, Tracy (Brian), Tyler (Leanne), Jerry (Preeti), and Jay; grandfather to Dylan, Tyanne (Devon), Brandon (Elise), Veronica, Teighan, Jacob and Joshua. He will be missed by his beloved niece Lori, her husband Bob and all his nieces, nephews and great-grandchildren.
Everyone who had the privilege of knowing Ron will remember him as being full of love and laughter. He was always ready to listen to a story just as much as he was eager to share one of his own. Ron loved to recount his many adventures in the bush up Cedar Narrows Road, the shack at Lost Axe and on Rainy Lake, as well as from his younger days as a stock car driver, proudly known as ‘Rockin’ Ronnie #99.’ He often liked to joke, “I had that number long before Wayne Gretzky did!”
Ron’s stories often reflected the deep love and pride he held for his children and grandchildren, and he never missed an opportunity to remind them how much he loved them and how proud he was of their accomplishments.
His dogs also held a special place in his heart – no matter where he was or which dog he had by his side, they felt his unconditional love. Even the neighbourhood dogs at Reef Point were not left out of his affection.
Ron’s passions included playing cards with his card buddies, hunting and fishing, and spending many cherished winters in Hawaii with Diane, Auntie Donna, and Uncle Gar. He looked forward to the daily phone calls from Terry, his reconnection with his dear friend Gordie and the love and support of his dear family friend Bonnie.
Ron cherished life on the lake at Reef Point, where he and Diane built their paradise together. After retiring, he could almost always be found on the property, busy with one project or another – often fixing something, whether it truly needed it or not. And if he wasn’t at home, he was likely in town picking up a part for his next project or enjoying a visit with friends. More often than not, his trips to town ended with a quick stop to pick up his lottery tickets.
Family and friends who spent time at Reef Point knew they were always welcome – whether it was to enjoy the lake or simply share a visit on the deck. There was almost always a ball game playing on the TV in the house or garage, and depending on the season, a warm fire to gather around.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the nurses and Dr. Carlisle at Riverside for their compassionate care and support.
Grampa Ron will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. His ashes will be laid to rest in Rainy Lake and his birthplace, Morden, Manitoba.
Arrangements entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd., Emo, Ontario.
