Ronald Buhs

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Ronald Allen Buhs, 79, of Okemos, Michigan, who passed away on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. He was born on Monday, April 28, 1947, the son of Hie and Hinreka “Reka” (Bartel) Buhs in Champaign, Illinois.

Ron was married for 56 years to his high school sweetheart, Janice (Smith) Buhs. Together, they built a loving family and a lifetime of cherished memories.

Ron proudly served for six years in the United States Marine Corps Reserve. He graduated from Southern Illinois University in 1971 with a degree in finance and moved to Okemos in 1981, where he and Janice raised their family.

An avid Michigan State football and basketball fan, Ron loved cheering on the Spartans. His greatest joy, however, was watching his children and grandchildren compete and perform in their many sports and activities. He rarely missed an opportunity to support the people he loved.

Ron also had a special love for animals, especially his beloved dog, Haven. A self-taught handyman, he could build or fix just about anything. He was the life of the party and will always be remembered for his incredible sense of humor and his ability to make others laugh.

Above all, Ron loved his family deeply. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife, Janice; children, Stacy (Carlos) Fernandez of East Lansing and Todd (Jennifer) Buhs of Okemos; grandchildren, Isabela, Alex, Eva and Leo Fernandez, and Adaline Buhs; sister, Donna Price (Gary); and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Hie and Reka Buhs; brothers, Ervin and Dean Buhs; and parents-in-law, Elmer and Eileen Smith.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life honoring Ron on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at his daughter’s home. Food and refreshments will be provided. Please contact the family for the address and additional details.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Ron’s honor to New Hope Pet Rescue, please click or copy their link here: https://www.newhopepetrescue.com/donate 

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Abigail Hospice, especially Ron’s caregivers Alex, Tiffany and DJ, for the kindness, compassion and dignity they showed Ron and his family throughout his final days. The family is also deeply grateful to the close friends whose steadfast love and support brought comfort to Janice and moments of companionship, laughter and joy to Ron during his most difficult days.