Ronald Francis "Bud" Dey, 95, of Palmetto, Florida, passed away on Thursday, February 13, 2025. He was born on August 20, 1929, in Maumee, OH, to Francis Henry and Lillian Dorothy (Hoffman) Dey.
Bud was the beloved husband of the late Marion (Granger) Dey and is survived by his sister Marilyn (Donald) Wheating and his five children: Stephen (Mary Jo) Dey of Waterville, OH; Kathleen (Robert) Kleffman of Berryville, AR; Linda (Thomas) Harpole of Ellenton, FL; Timothy (Valerie) Dey of Bradenton, FL; and Barbara (Pastor Joe) Skidmore of Palmetto, FL. He also leaves behind 20 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents and loving wife, he was preceded in death by his daughter Laurie Davidson; son-in-law Robert Davidson; grandsons Travis Johnson, Matthew Skidmore, Timothy McPeek, and Joshua McPeek; and sisters Janet Morgan and Ruth Ann Jefferson.
Bud grew up in Maumee, OH, and graduated from Maumee High School, where his strong work ethic and athletic ability made him well-respected. He excelled in football, basketball, and golf, playing football alongside Heisman Trophy winner Richard Kazmaier. He later raised his family in Waterville, OH, before moving to Palmetto, Florida, in 1978.
A proud U.S. Marine, Bud served as a sergeant in the Korean War with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Regiment, 1st Marine Division. From October 1950 to August 1951, he participated in pivotal campaigns, including the capture and securing of Seoul and the infamous Chosin Reservoir Campaign. During his deployment, he and Marion began exchanging letters, starting a love story that would last a lifetime.
Bud worked as a skilled tool and die machinist, but his true passion was in the Sporting Goods Department at The Anderson's in Maumee, where he enjoyed sharing his love for the outdoors. He was an avid sportsman who cherished hunting and fishing trips with his family, whether in Ontario, on Florida's waters, or later at his son's cabin in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
While living in Waterville, Bud maintained a large garden and apple orchard, taking great pride in his harvests. Even after moving to Florida, he continued gardening, often alongside Marion, whose green thumb brought beauty to their home.
Above all, Bud was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His sense of humor, strong work ethic, and deep love for his family leave behind a lasting legacy.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Sarasota National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations may be made in his name to Tidewell Hospice/Bradenton Hospice House, 2504 34th Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 26th Street Chapel, 5624 26th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34207, is in charge of arrangements.
