Ronald Owen Durant

1934 - 2021

Ronald Owen Durant
1934-2021
Mr. Ronald Owen Durant (Ron), age 87, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2021.
Ron was born on June 3, 1934, in Rochester, New York, to Owen and Marguerite Durant. His early life was filled with playing sports and spending summers with his cousins. After graduating from Aquinas High School, Ron joined the United States Marine Corps. He successfully completed training at Parris Island and was stationed at Quantico, Virginia for the rest of his tour. He mightily enjoyed the dances held in Washington D.C. for the Quantico Marines and the thousands of government secretaries. When asked once why he chose the Marine Corps, Ron replied, "The Marine Corps is known to have the most challenging training program and I wanted to see if I could do it." As a Marine, Ron was trained to improvise, adapt and overcome all obstacles in all situations. This motto was reflected in all aspects of Ron's life. He never gave up on anything, fighting to the very end. After an honorable discharge from the Marines, Ron attended the University of Notre Dame and graduated in 1959 with a degree in Economics. He then attended Rutgers University where he earned a Masters degree in Economics. After two years with Humble Oil and Refining Co., Ron went back to school at the University of Wisconsin- Madison to earn a PhD in Economics. While in Madison, Ron met another graduate student, Linda, who would become his future wife. After eight years spent at one university or another, his beloved Uncle Jim asked him one day, "Ron, are you ever going to get a job?" After marrying Linda in 1965, Ron did get a job as Assistant Professor at the University of Maryland. While living in the Washington D.C. area, Ron also worked at Brookings Institution as a Research Associate for Joe Peckman. While living in Maryland, Ron and Linda's first child, Tom, was born. In 1966, Ron left the world of academia for Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, Michigan, where he was on Finance Staff. While living in Michigan, daughters Kathy and Maureen were born. In 1975, the family moved to New Jersey as Ron had taken a job with Exxon Corporation as Senior Staff Economic Advisor. In 1977, the family moved to Houston, Texas when Ron was transferred to Exxon Company, U.S.A. Ron was with Exxon for 27 years and retired in 2000.
Other than professional organizations, the only organization Ron joined was the United States Marine Corps. His pleasures came from family, a few close friends and travel with his wife and grandchildren. After retirement, Ron and Linda had many memorable summer vacations with their two oldest grandchildren, Hannah and Johnny. These trips produced many fond and sometimes funny memories. And then there were the yearly or twice yearly trips to Europe which gave Ron much joy. On Saturday afternoons, the family knew what Ron was doing; watching Notre Dame football. All were welcome to watch, cheer or commiserate with him. Ron was a very generous man who helped 8 people obtain a college education. Ron was known by his family and friends for his sharp wit. Once when on a lunch job interview with two executives, Ron recounted that he didn't eat because the two men were constantly asking him questions. When the interview was over, one of the men laughed and said "Well Ron, I hope we didn't shake you up too much." To which Ron replied, "Sir, I was in the Marine Corps. I've been shaken by the best." Ron maintained his sense of humor to the end. Ron and Ella, his wonderful caregiver, made each other laugh every day.
Ron leaves behind his loving wife of 56 years, Linda, of Houston; son Thomas Durant (Laura) of Houston, daughters Katherine Nevarez (Johnny) of Houston, Maureen Durant of Richmond, Texas; grandchildren Hannah, Johnny, Ryan, Troy, Priscilla and Abbey. Ron was an honorable Marine, loving husband, father, grandfather, friend and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. The family wants to thank Pauli, Ron's trainer, who kept him going mentally and physically. The family is also grateful for Ella, Ron's caregiver, who knew how to make him laugh. Arrangements are being handled through Memorial Oaks. The burial will be private and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, kindly make a donation to the Alzheimer's Association.