Ronald Girard Mackin, 55

Ronald Girard Mackin, 55, of Kalispell, "went to join our Lord" on Wednesday, April 30, 2008. He was born April 4, 1953, in Whitefish to Bill and Dorothy (Sloan) Mackin.

The first years of Ron's life were spent in Apgar, in Glacier National Park. His life-long love for farming began at an early age helping his uncle Ted farm the family homestead in West Glacier.

His passion for hot rods and stock-car racing led Ron to pursue a career in auto mechanics, completing auto mechanics training in Billings at the top of his class. His many years as a respected mechanic and businessman led Ron to undertake many ventures, including ownership of Sure Trac Tire and Alignment.

Ron was active in the community, serving on the Helena Flats School Board, as PTO president, Parents Advisory Committee for Head Start and many other activities.

Ron was well liked. He wore his caring personality on his sleeve. Ron loved his wife and children, who spent many quality hours camping, fishing, hunting and helping him on the farm.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Dorothy; and his brother, Jerry.

He is survived by his wife, Kari; sons, Ronald, Robert, Tanner, Jordan and Kaleb; his daughters, Britney, Amie and Savannah; grandchildren, Amanda, Jayden and Janessa; brothers, Bill, Greg, Rick, Tony, Pat, Jeff and David; his sister, Kathy; his aunts, Martha, Jane and Agnes; and his uncle, Lloyd.

Funeral services for Ron will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, at New Covenant Fellowship in Kalispell, with burial afterward at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery. Viewing will be from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday, May 5, in the Johnson-Gloschat Funeral chapel.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Ron's family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and sign Ron's guest book.