Ron Michaels

Ron Michaels, of Newport was born August 26, 1946 and died February 20, 2011 after a very productive and interesting life. He graduated from Newport High School in 1964. He entered the military in 1967 and was a military veteran having served in the Army for four years, 13 months in Korea and then finishing his military career at Ft. Bliss, Texas as a drill instructor. After returning home to Newport, he worked at Otasco and then entered into the Vending machine business, which he was active in for thirty years, along with his wife Claudia. The Michaels team was responsible for bringing cellular phones to Newport in the beginning. They also remodeled, owned and operated The Depot Diner for four years and owned extensive rental properties. The revitalization of downtown Newport was one of Ron's passions and time will tell how successful that beginning will be. He is preceded in death by his father; Joe Michaels of Newport and his aunt and uncle; Charles and Panzy "Pip" Razer of Newport. He is survived by his wife of 34 years; Claudia Michaels of Newport, his mother; Maudie Michaels of Newport, two brothers, Steve Michaels and Don Michaels both of Newport, one daughter; Heather Michaels of California. Visitation will be 5:30-8 p.m., Thursday, February 24, 2011 at Dillinger Funeral Home. Graveside services will be conducted by Rev. Herbert Wilson and Rev. Craig Mullins at 10 a.m., Friday, February 25, 2011 at Watson Cemetery. Pallbearers are Marvin Poe, Delbert Coburn, Larry Cooper, Ron Delcase Sr., Ron Delcase Jr., and Gary Turner. Honorary pallbearers are Ray Dawson, Scottie Hess, Kathy Robinson and Neal Mann. Ron has requested that in lieu of flowers, he would like to see trees planted at Jacksonport State Park in his memory. There will be forms available during visitation for the memorial tree that will be planted by Park officials, or donations can be made to the Newport Downtown Revitalization Fund. Arrangements by Dillinger Funeral Home. www.dillingerfuneralhome.com.