Ronald Zander

Ronald D. Zander was born July 20, 1953 in Havre, Montana to Kenneth and Iler Mae Zander. Ronnie grew up in the Chinook, Harlem and Hays area and graduated from Harlem High School in 1971. At one year of age Ronnie had sleeping sickness; two months later he contracted polio. Ronnie battled the side effects of these two illnesses for the rest of his life along with the anger and frustration that accompanied the resulting physical limitations. Ronnie met David Cowell in high school, they quickly became the best of friends, spending most days together and David spending a lot of time with the Zander family, joining in on numerous camping and hunting trips. David had an incredible outlook on life and was an inspiration to most, especially Ronnie; even after David's passing, his memory was a constant encouragement to Ronnie. Ronnie married Betty Green in Missoula, Montana in 1988, Betty brought four children and several grand and great-grand children to this union; Ronnie really enjoyed being Grandpa. Ronnie looked forward to annual, spring trips, to Chinook, to help his folks clean out the flowerbeds and the raspberry patch in preparation for summer. Ronnie had a passion for nature; he kept a close eye on the weather, keeping track of temperatures, snow pack, water and fire danger, he looked forward to the flowers blooming in the spring, he enjoyed looking at wildlife, watching and feeding birds, although he was often frustrated at not being able to squirrel-proof some of the feeders! Ronnie also followed women's college basketball, he was a big fan of the Lady Griz and attended numerous games. Ronnie was well known for his joking personality, along with his kindness and caring for others. Ronnie was diligent about staying in touch with friends and family, reminiscing about the good ole days and, without fail, sent birthday and holiday wishes to each and every one. After settling in a retirement home, Ronnie reconnected with his good friend, Bingo, and developed a strong friendship with Bingo, his wife Carlene and their mutual friend Rod. This four-some looked forward to weekly breakfast gatherings at McDonalds along with birthday and holiday dinners at the Montana Club and Paradise Falls. Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Iler Mae Zander and his brother-in-law Philip Clay. Ronnie is survived by his brother Kenny (Pat), brother Stan/Scruff (Sandy), sister Susan, brother Bill (Patty), numerous nieces, nephews and grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you contribute to a charity of your choice.
Graveside services will be held on May 10th, 2025 at 11:00AM at the Kuper Memorial Cemetery in Chinook, Montana, followed by a fellowship luncheon at Sweet Memorial Park, Chinook, Montana.
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