Ronald E. Kinch

Ronald E. Kinch, 72, of Mishawaka, passed away Tuesday morning, July 10, 2012, in his home.

Ron was born June 21, 1940 in South Bend, a son of Eugene and Gladys (Deal) Kinch. He spent most of his years growing up in Mishawaka and was a 1958 graduate of Mishawaka High School. He served his country for several years in the US Army Reserves.

On July 7, 1962, Ron married Elaine VanVooren. The couple made Mishawaka their home. They celebrated their 50th anniversary three days before Ron passed away.

Ron retired after many years of employment with Dodge Reliance in Mishawaka.

Ever since Ron was a teenager he had a passion for cars. He loved restoring old cars and motorcycles. Ron was a founder and member of St. Joe Valley Street Rods. His current and past memberships also included Pioneer Auto Club, Hart City Street Rods and River Valley Antique Motorcycle Club. Ron was an inspector for the National Street Rod Association. Over the years Ron’s car hobby involved his family. In recent years he loved having his great grandson, Caleb, working by his side.

Ron’s surviving family includes his wife, Elaine; two children, Julie Huff of Mishawaka and Mike Kinch of Mishawaka; four grandchildren, Amber, Kaitlyn, Michelle and Alexandra; two great grandchildren, Caleb and Kara; his mother, Gladys Dewald of Mishawaka; a sister, Rebecca Balog of Colorado; two step brothers, Charles Dewald of Elkhart and Thomas Dewald of Florida; and a half sister, Christine Erickson of Bremen.

Ron was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Karen; his father, Eugene; and his step father, George Dewald.

Friends may spend time with Ron’s family Friday, July 13, from 3 - 6 pm in Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, 503 W. 3rd Street, Mishawaka.

A private family burial will take place at a later date in St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park, Granger.

Ron’s family suggests memorials be directed to the Center for Hospice Care. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home.