March 18, 1934 – June 5, 2013
Our Ron, devoted husband, beloved dad, brother and Papa is gone but will never be forgotten. He died peacefully with his family close at Victoria’s Royal Jubilee Hospital after a short illness.
Ron was a good man and he lived an admirable life. Work and family were at the centre of it. Earning his own way and providing for his family were important to him. Ron was born of modest beginnings in Regina, Saskatchewan. He grew up in the dust bowl and wartime. Ron began work full-time after leaving school in grade 10. He didn’t fully retire until this year.
Ron made a difference.
For more than 50 years Ron worked with the hearing impaired. He started with Beltone Hearing in Regina in 1955. He later took over the business. In 1973 Ron moved to Victoria and expanded Beltone on the Island to a dozen offices. Ron personally helped improve the lives of thousands through better hearing. It was his professional calling. Ron won the BBB’s Torch award for integrity and service and received Beltone’s President’s Cup as outstanding North American provider. Ron’s wife Bobbie, daughter Kathy, and sons Bill and Jeff worked with him at Beltone. Jeff now carries on the work as Ron’s successor.
Ron’s partner in life was Bobbie. Married for 56 years, Ron and Bobbie made every decision together. They had four children and created a home filled with love, humour and music. Their home was a gathering place. Countless feasts were shared there, often ending in sing-alongs around the piano. Bobbie’s beautiful voice joined by Ron’s in harmony. Ron’s mother Grace playing piano elegantly.
Ron is survived by Bobbie (nee Roberts), sister Gloria and brother Brent. Ron and Bobbie have four children, Jeff (Sharon), Bill (Cheryl), Kathy, and Rob (Suzanne). They have six grandchildren, Breanne, Justin, Allison, Kevin, Liam and Lauren. The youngest grandchild, Lauren, aged 12, wrote, “We love you so much Papa. You will always be in our hearts. I promise that I will do my best in life and think of you.”
Rest in peace, Papa. You have earned it.
A memorial tea will be held at McCall’s Reception Centre, Johnson and Vancouver Streets, on Saturday, June 15, at 1:30 pm. Thanks to the caring staff and physicians at RJH Oncology, VGH 7B, and Saanich Peninsula Hospital. Donations, in lieu of flowers, may be made to Variety, the Children’s Charity, which Ron and Bobbie have supported for many years. Condolences may be offered below.
34 Responses
My deepest sympathies to Bobbie and family.I had the pleasure of learning from and working with Ron when I worked at Beltone Canada. I will remember him as a strong leader, a man of integrity with great pride in both his work and his family. May his memory be an abiding blessing for Bobbie and family.
Sorry to here about your loss. I have lots of fond memories from my youth while you were in Regina and especially at Regina Beach. My prayers and thoughts are with you all.
For 37 consecutive years our group has celebrated the Grey Cup together. There never was a more faithful or dedicated “Rider Fan”. That type of dedication carried through to his work and to his family life. As one friend said “well, he has the best seats in Taylor Field now and is sharing the excitment with a few of his buddies who have gone before!”
Our love to Bobbie and to his whole family.
Carole, Suzanne, Betty, Whitey and Doreen
Bobbie and Family, Brent and Gloria, our sincere condolences on the passing of Ron. Ron was one of the nicest, kindest men I’ve ever met and I am so thankful we took the opportunity to visit with Bobbie and Ron shortly before Ron became ill. Ron will always be remembered fondly.
It was always such a great pleasure to see Rons’ smiling face at “the Beltone family ” gatherings. Ron was a man of great integrity , who passed this quality on in the running a successful business. Ron may be gone but he will not be forgotten. Our deepest sympathy to Bobbi and her family on the passing of Ron.
James and Joyce Buhr
Such a shock for all. Deepest sympathies to the whole family and the “Beltone” family world wide. He will be remembered in all our hearts. Hugs and support to Jeff and Sharon as you carry on the family tradition.
I was a newbie to the Beltone family in 2009 when I first met Ron and Bobbie while we were all awaiting our plane boarding in Vancouver. The big event was the Beltone anniversary in Chicago. I will never forget the wonderful experiences and laughs we shared during our time there.
It is a sad time as we say goodbye to Ron. My sincere condolences to Bobbie, Jeff and all your family. Remember to continue to share your stories and reminiscing about Ron, with the younger generations. Thinking of you all,
Laurie Deelman
Please know that our prayers are with you all.
Our deepest condolences to Bobbi and the Germain family.
I knew Ron for over 17 years, and he was truly a wonderful man who touched the lives of many. He will be missed from coast to coast.
Eva Lorenc
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Germain Family.
Mr Germain left such a strong yet gentle and caring impression upon my Mum with each visit at Beltone. An incredibly kind man that will be missed.