Ronald Wood Flanagan

Ronald Flanagan of Thornton, Colo., passed away Tuesday, October 11 at Good Samaritan Medical Center after a long and valiant battle with cancer. Ron's story was embraced by the media and the world when his insurance was canceled due to a 2-cent premium payment shortage. After public outcry, his insurance was restored and the ""Ron's 2 Cents"" foundation was established. Proceeds from this foundation go to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital for cancer research. Born May 7, 1950 in Detroit, Mich., Ron had an active and happy childhood. He lived in Michigan until he joined the United States Air Force in 1969. Over the course of his military career he studied electronics and hydraulics and served in Vietnam until his honorable discharge in 1975. While working at Becton Dickinson in Oxnard, Calif., Ron earned his degree. This led him to a long and respected career as a mechanical engineer, including 25 years at Medegen Medical Manufacturing in North Glenn, Colo. Ron developed lifelong friends wherever he went. Whether working, participating in sports such as golf, bowling or softball, attending Broncos and Rockies games, or hunting and fishing with his buddies, his friendships were full of fun, love, respect and loyalty. He was everyone's ""best friend."" Ron's faith grew exponentially over the years. His strength of conviction and quiet knowing was a source of inspiration to his doctors, nurses, clergy, family and friends. The friendships he developed with the staff at the Colorado Blood Cancer Institute will always be deeply appreciated by Ron's family. Their efforts went above and beyond in all aspects of his care. Ron is survived by his dear wife of 30 years Frances; daughters Heather Kelly (Greg), Amber Segovia (Fernando), Sabrina Smith (Ronzo), and Samantha Camacho-Organ (Michael); sister Kathleen Palmer (Mike); dearly loved grandchildren Amanda, Zane, Ariana, Tyler, Madison, Atyanna, Andrew, Seanna, and Daisy; twin great-grandsons Aaric and Adrian; dear family friend Nicole Pelletier; and many nieces, nephews and extended family. Ron's family and friends will always remember him for his love of life, his unbelievable wit and humor, and in his last years his renewed appreciation of what matters most. As he wrote in his last journal entry, ""Life is good, but remember it is mostly what you make of it. It's the simple things that bring the most joy."" Amen, dear Ron, Amen. Service Information: Memorial service at Horan & McConaty at 11:00 AM Immediately following the service there will be a procession to Fort Logan for military internment. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials payable to: Ron's 2 Cents c/o Vectra Bank '"" Thornton P.O. 22479 Denver, CO 80222 Please share your memories of Ronald and condolences with his family by clicking on the ""Sign Guestbook"" link below.