Ronald Douglas Kanar

Ronald “Ron” Douglas Kanar, 72, of Fort Myers, Florida, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family and friends on Tuesday, June 17, 2025.

Born on December 4, 1952 in Syracuse, New York, Ron was the eldest son of the late Douglas and Marilyn Kanar. Just a few months after graduating from West Genesee High School in Camillus, Ron joined the Air Force to fulfill his obligations in the Vietnam War. A decade later he left central New York for life in California, eventually moving on to live life to its fullest in Nevada and then ultimately choosing to settle down in the state of Washington. Along the way he built a successful career in women’s fashion that spanned almost four decades.

Retirement brought Ron to Florida and a slower pace of life. With opportunities to spend more time with family and enjoy the budding art scene, he enjoyed many aspects of life in Florida. Admittedly, he was not the biggest fan of south Florida drivers or the never-ending heat and humidity, he did his best to see the positive that life had to offer him.

Ron was known for his outgoing personality, a contagious laugh, a quick and sharp wit, a loving spirit, and a way of making you feel like you truly mattered. He shared with everyone the gift of presence. Anyone who knew him, knew of his zest for life and his gift for finding beauty in the world around him. He loved the arts and took any chance given to take in a play or explore an art gallery. Whether savoring a new culinary experience, enjoying a fine wine or cocktail, admiring the artistry of glasswork, or simply taking in the quiet solitude of nature, Ron embraced life with joy and curiosity.

Ron spent his life as a staunch follower of the Episcopal tradition, finding constant comfort from his fellowship in the faith. For most of his time in Florida, Ron found a home as a member of the Iona Hope Episcopal Church congregation, where he became involved in the singles group that gathered monthly for dinner and an adventure out to enjoy local plays and musicals which drew exclusively from the local talent. Eventually, he became involved in the church’s thrift store and freely gave of his time to support its mission to positively impact the local Fort Myers community.

Ron will be remembered always for the time he shared with others, the love he gave freely, and the beauty and joy that he found in every moment. No doubt about it, Ron lived life on his terms, and by any standard it was a life well lived to its fullest!

Ron is survived by his brother, David (Deny), and his beloved nieces and nephews, Courtney (Robbie), Emily (Bill), Ethan (Jade), and Joshua (Karen), along with six grandnieces and grandnephews.

A “Celebration of Life” will be held on Saturday, October 4, at 12:00 p.m. at St. Mark the Evangelist Episcopal Church in Syracuse, New York.