Ronald 'Ron' Brabander

Ronald 'Ron' Brabander

Feb. 13, 1944 - Aug.12, 2014

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. -- Ronald "Ron" Brabander, 70, of Grand Island, died on Tuesday, Aug.12, 2014, at Saint Francis Medical Center.

To honor Ron's wishes, cremation has taken place. A private family celebration of life will take place at a later date. All Faiths Funeral Home is serving the family.

Ron is survived by his wife, Magi; sisters-in-law, and brothers-in-law, Roger (Linda)McCullough; Bev (Lee) Carlson; Willa "Jo" (Daryl) Hunnicutt; Craig Fruit; Mike Fruit; Cheri Fruit (Mark Evens); Denise Schrock; sister, Rita Graham; and many dear nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers-in-law, Gary McCullough, and Clark Fruit; and two sisters-in-law, Lynne Splichal and Marcia Fruit.

He was raised and received his education in Grand Island, graduating with the Grand Island High School class of 1962. After high school, he joined the U.S. Navy and served his country from 1962 to 1966. On June 7, 1968, he married his soul mate, Margaret "Magi" Fruit in Grand Island.

Following his time in the military, he worked at Cornhusker Ammunition plant as a quality control supervisor and then as a Hall County deputy sheriff. He then worked for Northwestern Bell Telephone for 36 years, retiring in 2008.

During this time, they lived in Grand Island, Wayne, Sidney, Grand Island, McCook and North Platte, until returning to Grand Island in 2010.

Ron enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf, cycling, puzzles, and yard work. He was a member of Platt-Duetsche and the VFW. Ron's memory will be treasured by many.

Memorials are suggested to the Hall County Korean War Hero Flight.Condolences may be left at www.giallfaiths.com