RON ANSIN

ANSIN--Ron. Ron Ansin -- distinguished businessman, devoted philanthropist, passionate activist, and ardent lover of life, with strong ties to both Florida and Massachusetts -- passed away peacefully on June 28th, 2023. Through his pursuits and his family, Ron leaves a profound and expansive legacy. Ronald Marvin Ansin, the eldest son of Sidney and Sophie (Shachoy) Ansin, was born on March 28, 1934, in Worcester, Massachusetts. Alongside his younger brother Ed, Ron spent his early years in Massachusetts, until relocating to Miami in 1941. Ron returned to Massachusetts to pursue his education - from Phillips Academy in Andover, Harvard College, and Yale Law School. In New Haven 1956, Ron met and fell in love with Betsey Kander, celebrating a marriage in 1958. Together, they raised four children -- Kim, Ken, Barry, and Robert. After law school, Ron settled in Massachusetts, where he assumed leadership of his family's shoe factory in Fitchburg. Under Ron's stewardship, the Anwelt Shoe company flourished, and his own visibility and leadership in the industry grew with it. Among Ron's many industry achievement was taking a stake in Cole Haan and elevating the brand to become one of the most recognized and respected footwear and apparel companies in the country, and representing the shoe industry in visits to the Carter White House. For his contribution and impact, Ron was inducted into the Footwear Industry Hall of Fame in 1996. Beyond the footwear industry, Ron ventured into several other business endeavors, notably in community banking. For numerous years, he served as Chairman at Merchants Bank in North Central Massachusetts. In 1988, he played a pivotal role in the establishment of Enterprise Bank in Lowell, MA. As his business ventures thrived, Ron's interest in politics grew. In 1983, he was appointed Commissioner of Commerce by Governor Michael Dukakis. During his tenure, Ron spearheaded the development of the iconic "The Spirit of Massachusetts is the Spirit of America" marketing campaign, a visionary initiative that bolstered tourism and contributed to "The Massachusetts Miracle" of economic growth, reducing the state's unemployment rate by half, and marking a significant milestone in Massachusetts' economic history. Throughout his life, Ron demonstrated a deep engagement with his community in North Central Massachusetts and beyond. He assumed leadership roles within the local Chamber of Commerce, and served on the Boards of Applewild School and Lawrence Academy, institutions that would shape the lives of his children and grandchildren. He further dedicated his efforts to the Boys' and Girls' Clubs, the United Way of North Central Massachusetts, Ashoka, Brandeis University, the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts and, perhaps most proudly, the ACLU of Massachusetts. In recognition of his unwavering service on the organization's board, Ron was designated as "Chairman for Life" by the ACLU. His outstanding dedication to community service also earned him countrywide recognition when he received the National Alexis de Tocqueville Society Award for Community Service from the United Way of America in 1999, the highest accolade bestowed by the organization. After coming out, Ron emerged as a leading figure in LGBTQ philanthropy, and played a crucial role in the growth and accomplishments of Boston's Fenway Community Health Center and the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network (GLSEN). In recognition of his unwavering dedication and impact towards the advancement of marriage equality, Ron was honored with the prestigious Icon Award by Mass Equality in 2012, solidifying his reputation as a staunch advocate and philanthropist in the LGBTQ community. Amidst his remarkable contributions, Ron remained humble, insistent that he continually received more than he could ever give. His presence illuminated any room, accompanied by his booming voice which captivated all within earshot. Ron radiated an unparalleled zest for life, revealed through an infectious laughter that leaves a lasting echo. Above all, Ron's love for people, his cherished family above all, shone through. Whenever asked about his proudest achievements, a joyful and knowing smile would spread across his face as he fondly recounted, "teaching my children and grandchildren to swim." His words encapsulated his essence -- a man who achieved material and civic success, yet found deep fulfillment in the simplest and most heartfelt moments of love and connection. Ron leaves behind countless people whose lives have been bettered from his leadership, mentorship, and support. He is predeceased by his parents, Sidney and Sophie, and his younger brother, Ed Ansin. He is survived by his husband, former Mayor of Wilton Manors, Jim Stork of Aventura, Florida; his daughter Kim, his son Ken and daughter-in-law Jane, and sons Barry and Robert; nephews Andy and James, and niece Stephanie; his former wife, Betsey Ansin; his former partner Anthony Corey; his grandchildren, Kris, Ryan, Kurt, Nick, Indigo, Olly, Scott, Peter, Ben and Libby, and his two great- grandchildren, Eliza and Ronald Logan. Thanks to Ron, they all know how to swim.