Ronald Hensel

Ronald Jay Hensel, age 88, long time resident of Traverse City Michigan, passed away on June 8, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents Glen and Dorothy (Decker) Hensel, brother Richard (Bette) Langs, sister Peggy (John) DeLara, and sister Margot (Thomas) Okke.

Ron is survived by his wife, Lorraine (Lori) White-Hensel, sons Robert (Lori) Hensel, and James (Michelle) Hensel, grandsons Tyson (Genevieve) Hensel, Timothy Hensel, Brett (Lexi) Hensel, granddaughter Maribeth Hensel, great grandson Edward Hensel. Ron was thrilled to enjoy his first great grandchild, Eddie, for a short time. Two of Ron's brothers also survive, Ted (Katy) Langs and Charles (Diane) Hensel.

During his lifetime Ron enjoyed two very different career paths, first as head of the physical plant at Northwestern Michigan College for 25 years, where in addition to overseeing the technical infrastructure and facility maintenance he further utilized his skills as a licensed electrician by donating his time to student instruction in electrical systems. In a second career, as a licensed Realtor, Ron was just as dedicated and involved in his dealings with clients as he was in his previous career, where he made friends and many repeat clients for thirty years.

Being an outgoing person with a love of music and dance, Ron pursued and became accomplished in the art of square dance calling. He then spent 41 years traveling Michigan, with a square dance group called the Buttons and Bows. The group participated in the Fourth of July parade in Traverse City for 25 years. With his love of Hawaii Ron organized yearly square dance trips for this group to the Hawaiian islands. In order to expand his Ballroom dancing skills, he traveled to Argentina, where he learned Tango. Upon returning to Traverse City he shared these skills by teaching the “Art of Argentine Tango” to his fellow dance partners.

Outside of dancing his favorite activities included boating and fly fishing, along with learning to pilot a plane, a huge joy in his life, having earned his solo flying certificate. Ron was accomplished in many areas and was called friend by all who knew him. While Ron was battling complications of Parkinson's Disease he kept his great smile, wonderful sense of humor and had a kind word for everyone. He was grateful for the support of his family and friends and the wonderful caregivers at French Manor Terra Assisted Living and Memory Care. Ron's family will be forever grateful to all who lovingly cared for him.

Family will gather for interment at Oakwood Cemetery in Traverse City for final Farewell.

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