Ronald Lee Shryock, 80, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on April 9, 2025.

Ron was born in Onion Prairie, Illinois, June 8, 1944 and lived most of his life in Gaylord, Michigan. He grew up in Olney, Illinois, alongside his 7 siblings. He served in the Army, stationed in Korea for the majority of his service. In 1982, he married the love of his life, Patricia (Haynes) Shryock. Together, they shared five children. He was a loving husband, father, and Papa.

Ron is survived by his wife, Patricia; his two daughters, Lisa (Dennis) Mackowiak and Amy Harris; as well as his sons, Roy (Hannah) Shryock, Jeff Greif, and Tony (Melissa) Greif; along with his grandchildren, Paige, Nicholas, Emily, Andrew, Madalyn, Holly, Lucie, Laney, Lily, Lindy, and Helena.

Ron was the proud co-owner of L&R Well Drilling and drilled one of the first oil wells in the state of Michigan for Shell Oil Company (with CEDCO). He was a pillar of his community and a friend to all.

Ron will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his Southern drawl, his bright blue eyes, his love for restoring motorcycles and vintage cars, woodworking, and as he would say: his ability to fix anything except for a broken heart and the crack of dawn.

He is now reunited with those he loved who went before him, including his parents, Roy and Catherine (Menacher) Shryock, and his siblings, Leroy, Byrl, Imogene, Delores, George, Carol, and Rex.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff at Crawford Continuing Care Center, who went above and beyond to ensure Ron’s comfort as he neared the end of his life.

The family will be holding a visitation for Ron at St. Mary Cathedral in Gaylord on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 3:00 p.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 4:00 p.m. Dinner and a toast to Ron will be held at the Eagles Hall following Mass (approx. 5:00 p.m.).

Nelsons Funeral Home, Gaylord, MI