Ronald C. Bird, 89, of Rochester passed away at 10:37 PM on Monday, August 30, 2021 at Compassus Hospice of Indianapolis.
On September 15, 1931, Ronald Copley Bird was born in the General Hospital of Indianapolis. He was the treasured son of Cecil and Henrietta Copley Bird. After graduation from Carmel High School in 1949, Ron answered the call of patriotism, by joining the United States Army Air Corp. He served during the Korean War and was honorably discharged in 1953. Ron continued his education at Butler University. While there, he was a drummer in the pep band .
On November 19, 1983, Ron and Gladys Harling were married in Knoxville, Tennessee. They shared 38 years of life's adventures. With a love for exploring and cruises, Gladys and Ron enjoyed over 48 cruises navigating waters all over the world. At home they looked forward to cruising around Lake Manitou and watching the sunset. Hosting the Indianapolis 500 Race party on Memorial Day weekend was always a great opportunity to make memories, being with family and friends. Ron had diverse interests, including a love of cars and photography.
The Birds also shared a passion, cheering for Indiana University Men's Soccer Team. From 1982 - 2008 they did not miss a game and traveled to all venues wherever they played. The Bird's were recognized for their contributions and support of the team.
As entrepreneurs, the Birds founded the Ameri-Can Engineering Company of Argos in 1988. Their firm engineers and develops premier quality luxury restroom and shower trailer systems. In 2018, Ameri-Can celebrated their 30-year anniversary. For many years Ron was a member of the Potable Sanitation Association International. He was also a member of the Rochester Lion's Club. In 2017, Ron was recognized as a Melvin Jones Fellow, the pinnacle award in Lionism for his service, dedication and contributions to the club.
Left to cherish Ron's memory are children, Kimberly Ann Young and husband Elmer of Indianapolis, Sandi Bird Korzen and husband Tim of Glenview, IL, David Copley Bird and wife Kimberly of Carmel, Steven Compton Cook and wife Lisa A Stevens of Indianapolis, David R. Harling and companion Renee of Culver, Thomas A. Harling and wife Elizabeth of Fishers, Patricia Harling Lontz of Greenfield, Garry A. Harling and wife Angie of Cicero; daughter-in-law Kathy Harling of Fishers; 26 grandchildren; and 30 great-grandchildren.
Preceding Ron in death are his parents and his beloved wife Gladys on April 4, 2021 and sons Robert Scott Harling and Warren Sewell Harling.
A celebration of the life of Mr. Ronald C. Bird will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday September 10, 2021 in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th Street, Rochester. Mr. Garry A. Harling will officiate.
Friends may visit with the family from 9-11 AM in the funeral home on Friday.
A Lions Club Memorial Service will be at 10:45 AM on Friday in the funeral home.
Military honors will be conducted by the Fulton County Veterans Honor Guard and the United States Army Honors Team.
Inurnment will be at 10:00 AM on Saturday, September 11, 2021 in the St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church Columbarium, 1402 West Main Street, Carmel.
Electronic expressions of sympathy may be made to his family at www.goodfamilyfh.com.
