Ronald Baltrusz

It is with heavy hearts and profound respect that we announce the passing of Ronald Baltrusz, a cherished father, grandfather, and friend, on October 31, 2026. Ron’s journey began in Detroit, Michigan, on August 14, 1943, in the very home where he peacefully departed this world. Born to Peter and Anna Baltrusz, Ron was a devoted son who held his family close throughout his life. Predeceased by his parents and his dear brother Pete Baltrusz Jr., Ron is survived by his loving children, daughter Jennifer and her daughter Karma, son Christopher, and daughters Amanda and Andrea. His family was his pride and joy, and he relished every moment spent with them. Ron’s life was a melody of passion and dedication. A graduate of Robichaud High School in 1963, his love for music started early, playing and tutoring on the keyboard. He formed the band Sounds Incorporated in the late 1960s and later founded the Sterling Diversion talent agency in the early 1970s. With a keen entrepreneurial spirit, Ron invested in numerous ventures, including several bars, and opened the iconic Harpos Concert Theater in 1979, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of music until 1992. His dedication to the entertainment industry continued through his ownership and operation of the Token Lounge. After many vibrant years in the industry, he contributed to the Better Business Bureau for 15 years, retiring in 2010. Ron was a man of varied interests and simple pleasures. He enjoyed playing basketball and softball, and his favorite place was the serene mountains of Tennessee. He had an unending love for live music, especially jazz, Motown, and rock and roll. Drag racing was another passion, and he cherished his travels with friends like Gordie to Tigers spring training and NHRA races across the country. Despite his accomplishments, Ron remained a shy and soft-spoken man who shunned conflict. He was a hardworking soul, always striving to succeed in his endeavors and provide for his family. The bond he shared with his father was profound, spending his father’s final years by his side. A quadruple bypass in 2010 marked a turning point, leading Ron on a spiritual and health journey. Even as he faced three separate battles with cancer and two major strokes in recent years, Ron’s resilience shone through. His optimism was infectious, encapsulated perfectly in his favorite saying, “I’ve never had a bad day in my life.” A memorial service to celebrate Ron's life will be held on November 4, 2026, at Howe-Peterson Funeral Home, Telegraph Rd, Taylor, Michigan. The family invites all who knew Ron to join them from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with a short spiritual service at 2:00 p.m. Jennifer and Chris encourage those who attend to share their stories and memories, honoring Ron in the way he would have loved. Ronald Baltrusz’s legacy is one of love, music, resilience, and unwavering optimism. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.