Ronald "Ron" E. Zurlinden

Ronald "Ron" Edward Zurlinden, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on February 16, 2024, in Harlingen, Texas. Born on March 14, 1942, in Bay City, Michigan, to Clarence Zurlinden and Ruth Tesch. Ron lived a life full of passion and dedication to his family, work, and hobbies.

Throughout his 42-year career in the air conditioning industry, Ron made significant contributions to South Texas Services and CTO Air Conditioning. In 1987, he founded his own successful business, Ron’s Heating & A/C. His expertise led him to subcontract with Johnson Controls. Beyond his professional achievements, Ron was an active member of various motorcycle clubs and the Elks Lodge. He also found solace in his faith as a member of Valley Peoples Church.

Ron was a man of great intellect and perseverance, graduating from Peacock Military Academy and pursuing higher education at Texas A&I Kingsville.

In his leisure time, Ron found joy in fishing, hunting, and watching rodeos. His hobbies included riding motorcycles, collecting knives and eagle/pelican décor, and indulging in photography. He had a keen eye for capturing moments of beauty in the world around him.

Family was the cornerstone of Ron's life. He leaves behind his devoted wife Suzanne, with whom he shared 37 years of marriage. Together they created cherished memories traveling the world and engaging in their favorite pastime of dancing. Their shared passion for giving back to others led them on a transformative missionary trip to Costa Rica.

Ron's legacy lives on through his surviving children: Ron Edward Zurlinden Jr., Rebecca Zurlinden Glansbeek, Mandy Elizabeth Trull, and Mathew Warren Rueter. He nurtured each child with love and wisdom, imparting valuable life lessons through camping trips, outdoor adventures like hunting and fishing, and quality family time spent at the beach.

The light of Ron's life shone brightest in the presence of his five grandchildren: Nicole Zurlinden, Nathan Zurlinden, Trevor Glansbeek, Desiree Glansbeek, and Judah Rueter. He adored these young souls and delighted in sharing experiences with them—whether it was watching them play at the park or teaching them how to shoot a rifle at the shooting range.

Not to be forgotten are Ron's loyal companions—his Catahoula Leopard dog named Sweet Pea and Chihuahua named Buddy—who brought him immense joy and comfort over the years.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and medical staff at Harlingen Medical Center for their compassionate care during Ron's time in the ICU.

The family will receive friends and relatives on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m at Buck Ashcraft San Benito Funeral Home.  A  funeral service will take place on Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home chapel.  Following the service, Ron will be laid to rest at Mont Meta Memorial Park.

Honor to serve as pallbearers are: Monty Marrow, Mike Mathes, Danny Payton, Derrick Wolter, Rick Wyatt, and Victor Leal. Honorary pallbearers: Pat Griem, and Willie Spaeth

In remembering Ronald "Ron" Edward Zurlinden, we cherish the memories he created with those he held dear and honor the lasting impact he had on all who knew him. May his spirit continue to inspire love, kindness, and a zest for life among us all.