We are saddened to share that Ronald Michael Antaya passed away on January 26, 2026, at the age of 73. He was born on April 8, 1952, in Windsor, Ontario.
Ron was the beloved son of Melvin and Katie (née Lavin) Antaya. He leaves behind his loving wife Janet (née Sturgeon), with whom he enjoyed 15 years of marriage and a total of 37 years together. They shared a life full of love, laughter, and many special moments. Ron was proud to be the father of Jason (Rachel), Chuckie (Monica), Doug (Satty), Sherry (Joe), and Ronnie (Mary Jane). His grandchildren Jordan, Ryker, Zara, Melody, Brittany (Autumn), Charles, and Aiden brought him endless joy.
He also is survived by his siblings Cindy, Denise, Linda, and Jeff as well as his stepmom Solange. Sadly, he was preceded in death by his sister Debbie.
Ron devoted 28 years to General Motors and took pride in being part of the GM Union. Hard work meant a lot to him and it’s something he passed down to his family. Outside work he had lots of interests – golfing was one thing he loved doing. He also enjoyed playing and watching baseball, hockey and football games. Ron liked keeping up with the news too; it was important for him to stay informed about what’s going on around the world. Every evening without fail he’d call each member of his family showing just how much they all mattered to him.
People remember Ron as someone who cared deeply but could also be pretty stubborn sometimes. He had a laugh that would fill up any room along with a warm presence that made everyone feel good around him. The little things didn’t escape his notice either – he’d catch those small moments most people miss – adding lightness wherever he went. And above all else? His love for Janet shone through clearly for anyone lucky enough to see them together.
The family asks that anyone wishing to honor Ron consider donating to either the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Cancer Society-both causes close to his heart.
During this tough time they’d like to give special thanks to Darlene Dagenais, Sherry Marshall, Jason and Rachel Antaya as well as Brittany and Satty for their constant support when things got hard so suddenly.
You can pay respects on Friday January 30th at Windsor Chapel Banwell located at 11677 Tecumseh Rd East in Windsor from noon until three pm followed by the funeral service at three pm sharp. Cremation will follow afterward.
Ronald Michael Antaya may be gone but he’ll always be remembered fondly for kindness mixed with humor plus all the love he freely gave out around him every day. His spirit lives within those who knew him best – his family and friends carrying on what made him unique: love plus laughter combined into one package.
