Ronald K. Shepler, age 89, of Big Rapids, Michigan, passed away on Saturday, May 24, 2025. He was born on November 13, 1935, in Washington, D.C., the son of Melvin L. Shepler and Cora E. Henlen. A 1953 high school graduate, Ron attended the University of Maryland, where he participated in the ROTC program while earning a bachelor's degree in engineering 1957. There he met the love of his life, Virginia (Ginger), and the two were married on November 8, 1958. Ron was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force rising to the rank of captain. He served as a consultant to the Department of Defense and the National Security Agency and then returned to school to learn more about the theoretical side of cryptography while raising his family. In 1973, he earned his PhD in mathematics at the University of Maryland and began his teaching career at Alderson Broaddus University in West Virginia. Ron and his family later moved to Big Rapids, Michigan, where he joined the mathematics faculty at Ferris State College (now Ferris State University). He served as treasurer of the Ferris Faculty Association for many years and retired in 2012.

Ron was an unassuming fellow with a keen sense of irony. He enjoyed history, from ancient Greek culture to World War II, and learning about various civilizations. He was always eager to figure out how to fix or build new things and tackled countless home projects over the years. When he wasn't reading or repairing, he could be found at Clear Lake on the golf course. Ron was exceptionally kind and patient and was the rock of his family. They will miss most of all his deadpan dry wit and self-effacing humor. He never seemed to mind if his subtle history or science references went unappreciated.

Ron was deeply devoted to his family and leaves behind a legacy of integrity, intelligence, and quiet strength.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Virginia Shepler; Children: Kent (Gail) Shepler, Anne (Olav Richter) Shepler, Kathy (Layne) Fountain; Grandchildren: Owen and Ryan Shepler, Phoebe and Torben Richter, Andrea and Layne Jr. Fountain. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Private services are being held. Arrangements are in the care of Daggett Gilbert Funeral Homes, Big Rapids. To leave a memory or share a condolence, please visit www.daggettfuneral.com.