It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Douglas Mark Ronald, known to everyone as Mark. Born in Midland, Ontario July 29, 1948. Mark was raised in the small village of Hillsdale by his parents, Douglas and Vera Ronald, as well as his Aunt Eva, whose love of music helped inspire a lifelong passion.

Mark married Donna Ronald (née Dunn), who also grew up in Hillsdale. Together they have known each other for over 70 years, sharing 55 years of marriage, building a life centered on family, friendship, hard work and plenty of fun.

A gifted athlete, Mark excelled in nearly every sport he tried, but it was on the fastball diamond where he truly stood out. As a talented pitcher in the Simcoe Rural Fastball League, playing for the Hustlers, he became known for his shut-out games, competitive spirit, genuine love of the game and a song called the Hillsdale Hustler ball team. Music was another great passion in Mark's life. A naturally gifted musician, he could hear a song once and sit down to play it by ear. The sound of his fingers dancing across the piano keys became the soundtrack of family life. Later, he taught himself guitar, an instrument that accompanied him on camping trips, family gatherings, and countless evenings spent entertaining friends and loved ones.

Mark was a dedicated businessman and technician. For more than three decades, he co-owned a company that serviced printers and computers throughout Simcoe County, supporting schools, hospitals, and countless local businesses. He loved his work, not only for the challenges it presented, but for the freedom it gave him to connect with people. Mark had the ability to strike up conversations and making friends wherever he went

Despite his busy career, family always came first. Whether it was dropping by a school sporting event, driving a family member to an appointment, going out for lunch, playing with his grandkids, picking them up from the bus stop or simply being available when needed, Mark always made time. He never seemed too busy and was known for almost always saying "yes" when someone needed help.

As a father, he taught his children perseverance, sportsmanship, determination, and perhaps a little healthy competitiveness. He taught them how to throw and catch a ball, how to work hard, and how to keep going when things became difficult. Some of his family's most treasured memories were made during annual camping trips to Killbear Provincial Park, family visits, Caribbean destinations, and adventures throughout Atlantic Canada.

He survived by his siblings Gary Ronald (Mae), Robert Ronald (Lucy), and Elizabeth Shakell (Terry), along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, former colleagues, and community members whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Mark will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his devoted wife of 55 years, Donna Ronald (Dunn); his daughter, April King (Ronald), and son-in-law Jody King; his son, David Ronald, and daughter-in-law Justine Ronald (Fallis); and his cherished grandchildren Hayden, Rachel, Hudson, Sawyer, Allison, and Deacon.

The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the Cancer and Palliative Care Unit at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre for their exceptional care, compassion, and support. We are deeply grateful to the entire team for the dignity, kindness, and dedication they showed Mark and our family during a difficult time.  Arrangements for Marks cremation entrusted to Lynn-Stone funeral home.  

Though his passing leaves an immeasurable void, the lessons he taught, the music he played, the memories he created, and the love he shared will continue to live on in all who knew him.

A life well lived and legacy that will never be forgotten.