Ronald Lee Ruhland, a beloved member of the Bay City community and devoted family man, passed away on December 10, 2025, at the age of 86.

Ronald was born on December 19, 1938, in Bay City, Michigan, the son of the late Clement A. Ruhland and Helen Marie (Williams) Ruhland.

Following his graduation from Handy High School in Bay City, Ronald continued his education at Central Michigan University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. His time at university was not solely focused on academics; he was also a member of the swim team as an All-American diver and participated in gymnastics, showcasing his commitment to sports from an early age. In addition, he was honored to be an Eagle Scout in his youth.

Ronald's career was deeply rooted in his family's business, Made Rite Potato Chip Company, where he served as the Vice President of Sales. His leadership and contributions were instrumental in the success of the company, earning him respect from colleagues and community members alike.

A true sports enthusiast, Ronald embraced an active lifestyle throughout his life. He found joy in running, participating in numerous marathons and 10Ks, and enjoyed playing tennis and pickleball. His physical vitality extended beyond individual sports to leisure activities, as he enjoyed boating and reading in his free time.

Throughout his life, Ronald was also a dedicated public servant. He was a long-time member of the Saginaw Bay Yacht Club and was a Past-Commodore. He served as a former Michigan Water Ways Commissioner and as a former Bay County Commissioner, reflecting his commitment to improving his community and the lives of his fellow citizens. He was an active member of Peace Lutheran Church.

Ronald is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Ann C. Borchard-Ruhland, with whom he shared a joyful partnership since their marriage on October 14, 1995. He cherished his role as a father, leaving behind children William (Audrey) and Rhonda (Gene), and his former wife Linda. He took pride in being a grandfather to three grandchildren, Jeremy, Nicole, and Nicholas. Ronald is also survived by his brother Lauren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clement A. Ruhland and Helen Marie (Williams) Ruhland, as well as his brother Robert and two sisters-in-law, Gwendolyn and Janet.

Friends may visit with the family from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 4480 Mackinaw Rd, Saginaw, MI 48603. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at Peace Lutheran Church, 3427 Adams Ave, Saginaw, MI 48602, where friends may visit with the family from 10:00 a.m. until time of the service. Rev. Erik Schmidt will officiate the service and private interment will take place later in St. Patrick Catholic Cemetery in Bay City, MI.

** The funeral service will be live streamed and may be viewed on the Peace Lutheran Church YouTube page : https://www.youtube.com/user/PeaceSaginaw. **

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider Peace Lutheran Church or Leader Dogs for the Blind.

Please share memories of Ronald with his family at the visitation and service, or by visiting www.casefuneralhome.com.