Ronald J. Kantor

Ronald J. Kantor, age 81, of Oconomowoc, WI, passed peacefully surrounded by family on Wednesday, February 28, 2018. Ron is survived by his loving wife Joanne of 57 years; his children Cheryl (Lenny) Chew and Paul Kantor; his grandchildren Noelle (Steve) Zobrist, Julia Chew and Olivia Chew; his brother Russell (Kathee) Kantor and many more family and friends. Ron is preceded in death by his siblings Barbara Bergum and Robert Kantor. Born and raised in Milwaukee, Ron started working in the laundry business around the age of 16. He worked diligently to become a route salesman and was promoted to be a route supervisor in the leather & suede department. Ron married Joanne and they moved to Sussex, where they made their home with their two children for 25 years before moving to Stone Bank. At age 40, opportunity arose for Ron to start his own company, Leather-Rich Inc., a specialty cleaner of leather, suede and fur garments. Ron and two other partners together operated this business until Ron bought out the partners. Leather Rich started in one building on Silver Lake Street, grew to be housed in 3 buildings, and later was relocated to one building in Corporate Center Park, Oconomowoc. Ron was owner and president of Leather-Rich, Inc., and the business continues to operate. Ron was involved in the trade associations. He was President of Wisconsin Fabricare Institute and later was on the International Fabricare Board of Directors 5th District involving many meetings and travel. Ron loved the game of golf for decades and was a member of Lac LaBelle Golf Club and later Watertown Country Club. In his younger years, Ron could be found at the bowling alleys. In his later years, he regularly played sheepshead. Ron was an avid Packers fan. Faithful to church attendance, Ron led congregational singing at Grace Bible Church, Oconomowoc, for many years. Ron enjoyed people and made friends wherever he went along life's way. He was well respected and will be remembered for making the most of each day. Services for Ron will be held at Pagenkopf Funeral Home (1165 E. Summit Ave, Oconomowoc) on Sunday, March 4, 2018 at 4 pm. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 2 pm until time of service at 4 pm. A private family burial at Oconomowoc Township Cemetery will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ron's name may be made to VCY America or Grace Bible Church of Oconomowoc.