Ronald B. "Ron" Hubbard

Mr. Ronald B. "Ron" Hubbard, age 80, of Downer Ave., Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, January 6, 2006, at the Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare Center with his family by his side. Born in Lyons Falls, NY on August 14, 1925, Ron was the son of the late Harry and Lottie Hubbard. He was raised and educated locally. A veteran of World War II, he served in the SeaBees, a branch of the U.S. Navy. It was in Utica on May 30, 1970 that he was joined in marriage with the former Kathy Kratzenberg with whom he has shared a union of 35 years. A construction worker by trade, Mr. Hubbard was employed with Metro Paving for a number of years up until the time of his retirement. Ron's life revolved around his loved ones. In living up to his personal philosophy of "Always do the best that you can," he proved to be an outstanding family man. He faithfully supported his children and, in more recent years, his grandchildren in all of their activities and interests. Always a loving husband, father, and grandpa, he will be greatly missed by all. He had a generous nature and was always willing to help family, friends, or anyone who sought his assistance. Among his favorite pastimes, he especially enjoyed family cookouts, fishing, and watching Westerns. Mr. Hubbard is survived by his loving wife, Kathy; two adored sons, Richard Hubbard of Rome and his fiance, Crystal Smothers, and William "Bill" Hubbard of Canastota and his fiance, Kim Robinson; and two cherished daughters, Ronette "Missy" Carney, and Tammy Hubbard, both of Utica. He was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Irvin Carney, who passed away less than a year ago on March 7, 2005. Ron also leaves to mourn his passing 16 grandchildren: Brian and Cody Cass; Christopher Bazan; Tearza Hubbard; Irvin, Dominique, and Corey Carney; William Jr., Jamie, and Alexis Hubbard; Kayla Luckina; Chaz and Paige Smothers; and Tina, Christie, and Leonard Jr. Hubbard. He cherished in his heart the memory of his grandson, Joshua Hubbard. Ron is also survived by two sons, Ronald Hubbard, Jr. and Leonard Hubbard, both of Remsen; several great-grandchildren; and his in-laws, Donald and Lois Kratzenberg, Jeffrey Kratzenberg, and Jo Ann Delaney, all of Utica; Alda Hubbard and Velma Hubbard. In addition, his survivors include a special aunt, Deloras Davis of Fayetteville, NY; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins; and a very close friend, JoAnna Prentice. He was predeceased by a brother, Lawrence Hubbard. He also leaves a faithful canine companion, Susie, who will also deeply miss him. The family offers its heartfelt thanks to Dr. Sloan and his staff for their caring and compassionate services. Visitation will be held today (Monday) from 5-7 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Mr. Hubbard's funeral service will be conducted with military honors at the funeral home at 12:00 noon on Tuesday. Interment in Forest Hill Cemetery will take place immediately following the funeral.

Ronald B. "Ron" Hubbard

August 14, 1925 - January 6, 2006