Ronald G. Hughes, 86, a lifelong Duluth resident, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 27, 2025, with his family by his side. He was born on October 7, 1938, to Helen (Matuzak) and Gerald Hughes in Duluth, MN.

Ron grew up in West Duluth, where he attended St. James School through the 9th grade and graduated from Cathedral High School, Class of 1957. Following high school, Ron served in the U.S. Navy from 1958 to 1962 as a radarman aboard a destroyer in the Pacific.

On February 13, 1965, Ron married his beloved Bernice Meyer at St. James Catholic Church in Duluth. Together, they shared a loving marriage and a family for 60 years. Ron had a distinguished 31-year career at the CN/DWP Railroad, where he served as the manager of security and safety until his retirement in 1993.

A devout Catholic, Ron was a lifelong member of St. James Catholic Church. He was also an active member and past president of the Arrowhead Peace Officer Association. Ron's life was filled with enjoyment, from his faith and family to his love of sports, fishing, camping, traveling, playing golf, and a good poker game.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, his sister and brother-in-law, Judy and Dennis Mattinen, and his granddaughter, Jill Moreno. He is survived by his loving wife, Bernice; his sister, Claudia (Ron) Berg; his children, Judy Hughes, Ronda (Bill) Stovern, Mike (Darla) Hughes, and Ginger (Daric) Trnka; his grandchildren, Jodi Broadwell, Valeri Mudek, Lucy Carey, Helena Trnka, Kelly (Mark) Zimmerman, and Kari Stovern; three great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 2nd from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. James Catholic Church, 715 N 57th Ave W, Duluth. Interment will follow at Oneota Cemetery.

Ron will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his devotion to family, and his vibrant spirit. He touched the lives of all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.

The family wishes to thank the dozens of medical staff who cared for and loved Ron at Essentia Health in Duluth and Superior, and Viewcrest Health Center.