Ronald F. Sampsel, 86, of Coldwater passed away Saturday, January 16, 2026 at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo, MI.
Visitation will be held Thursday, February 12, 2026 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Dutcher Funeral Home in Coldwater, MI.
A memorial service will be held Friday, February 13, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Lockwood Community Church, Coldwater.
He was born February 22, 1939 in Toledo, Ohio to Vernon and Freda (Tidwell) Sampsel. Ron dedicated his working life to public service, serving the Sylvania, Ohio Fire Department for more than 20 years as a firefighter and EMT. His commitment to helping others extended beyond the station, as he also taught CPR and was always willing to share his knowledge to keep his community safe. Ron retired following a long and honorable career marked by service, compassion, and professionalism.
In March 1986 Ron married Patricia Baron, who survives. Together they shared many years filled with friendship, faith, and adventure.
He was a proud member of the Colon Masonic Lodge F & AM #73, Lockwood Community Church, the Elks in Coldwater, and the Moose in Fremont. He especially cherished his many fishing trips to Canada, where he and a group of close friends famously refurbished a school bus to travel together, creating lasting memories and stories that will be fondly remembered.
Ron will be remembered for his dedication to service, his love of the outdoors, his strong sense of community, and the friendships he built throughout his life. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, teamwork, and devotion that will live on in all who knew him.
In addition to his wife of 40 years, Patricia Sampsel of Coldwater, Ronald leaves behind his children Bruce (Sue) Sampsel of Cleveland, OH, Kristina Sampsel, Sarah Sampsel both of Albuquerque, NM, Reid Sampsel of Toledo, OH, Cara (Dan) Drummond of South Lyon, MI; his step-children Gregg (Ginger) Klear of Hobbs, NM, Vicki (Jeff) Stringham, Amy (Charles) Heiny both of Liberty Center, OH; his brother Jim Sampsel of FL; his 7 grandchildren; great grandchildren and his many loving nieces and nephews.
Ronald was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Doug Sampsel.
Memorial donations may be made to Rose Arbor Hospice.
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