James Ronald Ganong

James Ronald Ganong, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, Michigan. Born on September 1, 1961, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Jim’s life was marked by a steadfast dedication to family, faith, and his career. He will be remembered as a gentle giant with a heart of gold, a man who carried kindness and compassion wherever he went.

Jim was a remarkable individual whose journey began with his education at Mayo High School, from which he graduated in 1979. He pursued his spiritual and academic growth by attending Minnesota Bible College for a year and later earned his bachelor's degree from Great Lakes Christian College in 1989. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, exemplified not only through his education but through his love for singing at church and being an active participant in his church community.

In 1980, Jim enlisted in the U.S. Navy, proudly serving as a Cryptologic Technician. His dedication and excellence earned him the distinguished honor of Sailor of the Year for the Pacific Fleet in 1981. After an honorable discharge in 1984, he transitioned into a career that showcased his technical expertise and unwavering work ethic. From 1991 to 1999, Jim held positions as a system analyst, network technician, and support technician at Michigan State University. He continued to apply his vast knowledge as a network administrator at Future 3 Software from 1999 to 2002, then at MHSAA until 2006. From 2006 onward, Jim served as a network administrator and advisor for AF Group in Lansing, where he was cherished not just as a great boss, but as a compassionate, cheerful presence who brought positivity to every workplace interaction.

Jim’s proudest accomplishments were his children and granddaughter. Married to his loving wife, Roberta Ingram, since November 23, 1985, at First Church of Christ in Mt. Pleasant, he was a devoted family man. Together, they raised three children: Travis, Nicole, and Bryanna. His joy extended to his granddaughter, Olivia Starr, whom he adored and lovingly helped to raise as his “super girl.” Jim’s unwavering support was evident in his attendance at every event involving his children through their high school and college years. Whether it was watching his brother-in-law Earl race cars, cheering for Travis as a coach in Knoxville, or simply spending time getting to know Olivia, Jim’s love was unmistakable and profound.

Those fortunate enough to know Jim describe him as laid back, extremely helpful, faithful, supportive, and always wearing a smile—a true giant in both stature and spirit. He found happiness in a wide range of hobbies including golfing, computer games, walking and hiking with his dog Niko, and deeply engaging with his church community.

Jim is survived by his wife, Robbie; his children, Travis (Vanna) Ganong of Knoxville, TN, Nicole Ganong (fiancee, Josh Starr) of Mt. Pleasant, and Bryanna Ganong of Pewamo; and his cherished granddaughter, Olivia Starr. He also leaves behind his father, Howard Ganong of Lansing; brothers Marty (Tina) Ganong of Lansing, Andy Ganong of Arizona, Andy (Cyndi) Pyatskowit of Shawano, Wisconsin, and Al (Gloria) Pyatskowit of Shawano, Wisconsin. Jim was also blessed with wonderful parents in-laws: Ralph and Linda Ingram of Mt. Pleasant; siblings-in-law Melinda (Dave) Devine of Mt. Pleasant, Earl Ingram (Cheryl Yesney) of Clare, and Marion Pyatskowit of Appleton, Wisconsin. Numerous nieces and nephews also carry fond memories of their beloved uncle. He was predeceased by his mother, Sandra Ganong, and brother, Robert Pyatskowit.

As family and friends gather to honor Jim’s memory, the love he shared and the warmth he brought into their lives will remain a lasting legacy. A visitation will be held on June 5, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Charles R. Lux Family Funeral Home in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. The funeral service will follow on June 6 at 11:00 a.m. at First Church of Christ in Mt. Pleasant with Pastor Gary Kennedy (of West Lansing Church of Christ) officiating. The family will receive friends at the church one hour before the service begins. He will be laid to rest at Memorial Gardens Cemetery with military honors. All are invited to a luncheon at the church immediately following the cemetery service.

Though Jim has left this world, the impact of his kindness, faith, and love will be felt deeply by all whose lives he touched. He was truly a good man with a heart as big as his smile, a gentle giant whose memory will be cherished forever.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation to Great Lakes Christian College in Lansing.