Ronald Henry Ponichter

Ronald "Ron" Henry Ponichter, a devoted father, proud grandfather, and lifelong man of quiet strength and kindness, passed away on March 31, 2025, at the age of 81, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. A 25-year resident of Sterling Heights, Michigan, Ron leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and unwavering dedication to his family.
Born in Hamtramck, Michigan, on July 5, 1943, to Henry and Lorain Ponichter, Ron was raised on the eastside of Detroit and graduated from De La Salle High School in 1961. He went on to earn a master's degree in pharmacy from Wayne State University, a field in which he devoted his career with both skill and compassion. In the early days, Ron owned and operated Franklin Pharmacy, later serving patients at Kern Hospital for many years, which later became Southeast Michigan Surgical Hospital. He brought care and integrity to his work and was known as someone who could always be counted upon.
Outside of his profession, Ron enjoyed playing softball, bowling and pool, but found his greatest joy in being a father to his four daughters. He was the kind of dad who showed up-with a toolbelt, a rake, or simply a listening ear. Whether tending to the garden, fixing something around the house, or supporting his daughters' many interests, he was there with a steady hand and a loving heart. His daughters recall these moments with warm smiles, remembering his quiet guidance and ever-present support. Ron adored his grandson Levi, and delighted in their special bond. His love for his family was constant, humble, and deeply felt.
Ron is survived by his daughters, Renee (Vidal) Harrison, Lisa Ponichter, Annette (Joel) VanderLinde, and Kristen (Bradley) Ponichter-Pierce; his cherished grandson Levi; his former wife, Patricia Sliger-Ponichter; and his sisters, Barbara Finazzo and Yvonne (Sal) Tringali. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Dennis Ponichter.
Visitation will be held on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. with a Scripture Service at 7:00 p.m. at Gramer Funeral Home, 705 North Main Street, Clawson, MI 48017. A Funeral Mass celebrating Ron's life will take place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., in-state at 11:30 a.m., at Guardian Angels Catholic Church, 581 E. 14 Mile Road, Clawson, MI 48017. He will be laid to rest at Christian Memorial Cultural Center in Rochester Hills.
Memorial donations may be made to the Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital-causes close to the family's heart.
Ron's legacy is one of quiet strength, selfless love, and deep devotion to those he held dear. He will be missed beyond words and remembered with love always.