Ronald Lee Massanari

TECUMSEH — Ronald Lee Massanari, age 85, of Tecumseh, Mich., passed away on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, surrounded by his entire immediate family. He was residing at Cambrian Assisted Living in Tecumseh under the support of Optimal Care Hospice. Ron was born on June 4, 1941, in Champaign-Urbana, Ill., the son of the late Karl Luis and Christine (Yoder) Massanari. On June 8, 1962, he married the love of his life, Rhoda May Nyce (surviving), at Goshen College, Ind. For his whole life, he remained enamored and infatuated with Rhoda, only choosing to pass on when he knew she was safe and cared for.

After graduating with his doctorate from Duke, Ronald spent 36 years of his life working as a college professor, teaching youth to question the world and their beliefs, the majority of which was at Alma College in Michigan, and from which he retired. Ronald also had the honor to serve as chair of the Religious Studies Department. He was a very deep thinker and pursued a never-ending search for more knowledge, often engaging in hours long conversations around topics like the meaning of life. He also loved reading on his Kindle and sculpting, especially masks. Ron also had several published articles throughout the years.

In addition to his wife, Rhoda, Ronald is survived by his daughters, Nicole (Brian Makowski) Massanari of Delton, Mich., and Danielle (Jeff) Ward of Tecumseh; his five grandchildren, Brian (Lauren) Crawford, Veda (Leslie Meloni) Massanari-Thatcher, Johanna Makowski, Samantha Makowski and Soren Ward; three brothers, Jared (Alice) Massanari of Asheville, N.C., Ken (Carol) Massanari of Tuscon, Ariz., and Jeff (JoDee) Massanari of Goshen, Va.; and several nieces, nephews and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents and his son-in-law T. Thomas “Tad” Massanari-Thatcher.

At his request, cremation has taken place. His ashes will be joined with the love of his life, Rhoda, when the time comes. The family will plan a Celebration of Life for a later date. Memorial contributions in Ronald’s honor may be made to the Catherine Cobb Safe House, in Adrian, Mich. Both of his daughters and a granddaughter spent time working at Catherine Cobb so it became an important charity for Ron.

Arrangements are under the care of the Tecumseh Chapel of Handler Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be made to the family at handlerfuneralhomes.com.