Ronald Pawlanta

Ronald E. Pawlanta, 78, of Saginaw, passed away Tuesday January 14, 2020 at Vista Springs-Northview in Grand Rapids under the loving care of his family and Spectrum Hospice. Ron was born on November 22, 1941 in Saginaw, the son of John A. and Stella V. (Duhoski) Pawlanta.

He graduated from Saginaw St. Peter and Paul High School with the Class of 1959. For many years Ron was an excellent chef and earlier years was the head chef at the Saginaw Country Club. He was an outstanding businessman and later owned the Drifters Inn in Saginaw a popular local nightclub. He was a long- time member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Saginaw where he had served as an usher. Ron loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. Ron enjoyed collecting coins and owning several classic cars. His favorite two cars were his 1933 Willys and a 1965 Buick Riviera. He enjoyed showing these two cars at many Saginaw area car shows. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by his family and friends.

Ron is survived by his wife; Carol Pawlanta of Freeland, children; Brett (Melissa) Pawlanta of Grand Rapids, Kearsten (Dan) Lizak of Howell, grandchildren; Taylor (Riley) Pawlanta, Mitchell (Kelly) Pawlanta, Andrew Pawlanta, Brendan Lizak and Molly Lizak. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, one brother Eugene Pawlanta and one sister Mary Ann Booms.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 AM Saturday, January 18, 2020 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 1035 North River Road, Saginaw, MI 48609 with Father Andy Booms as celebrant. Visitation will be one hour before the Mass at church. Ron's final resting place will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Saginaw. Memorials may be given to Spectrum Hospice or Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Envelopes will be available at church or the funeral home.