Ronald Aittama

He was born on November 3, 1943, a son of Henry and Hilma (Kesti) Aittama. He was a graduate of Hancock Central High School in 1961. He then enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving in Thailand and Vietnam. He was honorably discharged in 1964.

Ron worked in mines for C&H. He worked for GM at Pontiac truck and Coach. He became an Ontonagon County Sheriff’s Department deputy and was promoted to chief deputy. In 1972, he started with the State of Michigan license bureau, working there for 27 years until his retirement. Then, he pursued his dream of driving semi-trucks until he finally retired again. He also taught for Liberty Truck Driving School.

He was married to Sharon Schmitt at St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Hubbell in August of 1966.

Ron was a member and past Commander of VFW post 4624 of Hubbell. He was a member of American Legion Post 90, the NorthStar Foresters, and Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Lake Linden. He enjoyed golfing, bowling, and motorcycle riding.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Delores Goetz; brothers, Harry and Michael Aittama; sister, Carol Houge; and a young brother, Gary; father and mother-in-law, Bernie and Gloria Schmitt; and brother-in-law, Bernie, Jr.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sharon of Hubbell; three children, Corey (Tracey) Aittama of Tallahassee, Florida, Carrie (Dan) Bartell of Wallace, Michigan, and Sarah (Tom) Derry of Redford. The loves of his life were his grandchildren, Kyle (Kelsey) Bartell, Lauren (Ryan) Bartell, Erik Aittama, Madelyn Aittama, and Brooke Bartell; his most precious great granddaughters, (twins) Callie and Avery Bartell; sisters, Helen (Don) Chamberlain and Sharon (Allen) Davis; brother and sister-in-law, Ron and Mary Schmitt; sister-in-law, Alice Schmitt; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

When you pass by his house, still give a toot. Somehow, he’ll be there to wave back.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 19, 2021, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Lake Linden with Fr. Joseph Boakye Yiadom to officiate. Mask use and social distancing is required.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, visitation will be private. The Pearce Funeral Home in Lake Linden is in charge of arrangements

Online condolences may be left at pearcefuneralhome.com.