Ronald D. Hampton (77), of LaPorte, Indiana, passed away on October 17th, 2023, surrounded by the family who loved him.

 

Ron was born in Lafayette, Indiana on December 21st, 1945, to Gladys Crabree (Farner) who he undoubtedly met with joyful arms as they were reunited. He also rejoined in play with his dogs Heidi and Molli.

 

Ron was enlisted in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1972. During that time, he served two consecutive tours in Vietnam. He was honorably discharged with the final rank of SP5. He was a proud member of the VFW Post 1130 and American Legion Post 83 in LaPorte where he deeply enjoyed sharing time with his friends. Ron held deep respect and pride for his son who went on to actively serve two tours in Iraq and returned to be a leader and advocate in the local military community.

 

Ron married Sue (Bozik) in Lafayette, Indiana on May 22nd, 1971, who stood loyally in love by his side throughout their time together. She continues to share her story with their children Elena (Joe) Mrozinske of LaPorte, and Matt (Amandda) Hampton of Michigan City, their furbaby Sam, as well as her grandchildren Emilie and AJ. He will also be missed by his brothers Bill (Susie) Hampton of Lafayette and Mark (Mona) Hampton of Crawfordsville.

 

Ron graduated from Purdue University with a degree in accounting. He operated in his community with pride as a co-owner of Millburn Peat Co. throughout his lifetime. Teaching his family and friends the art of local peat harvesting and environmental protection, he had great adventures including fossil discovery and preservation, as well as the development of sustainable local water resources throughout his career. Fond stories are often shared about the joy in his own property and his meticulous detail to the yard. His love of the water extended to shared time near the ocean waves where he found peace and enjoyed the warmth of the sun on his shoulders.

 

Ron served his community as a member of the YMCA Board of Directors where he loved to play and coach basketball. He was a generous financial supporter for local businesses, and a small business mentor to many. His passion from a young age included basketball where he played and shared time with several historical athletes. He was a fierce ping-pong competitor and a strategic mastermind at chess. His family got to share his passions when he played as a teammate, a competitor, a coach, a mentor, a weekend armchair spectator, and a consistent presence at their own events.

 

Visitation will be held from 2-4 pm on Saturday, October 21st, 2023, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, LaPorte, Indiana where his friends and family are invited to share a ginger ale and snack with him one more time.

 

Military Honors will be presented at 4 p.m.

 

Memorial contributions can be made to the Veteran’s Association for the specific purchase of recliners, c/o Matt Hampton, 97 Keston Elm Drive, La Porte, Indiana 46350.

 

Memorial contributions can be made to the Veteran’s Association for the specific purchase of recliners.

 

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Ron’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please visit www.EsslingFuneralHome.com.