Ronald C. Kersten, age 72 of Portage passed away Saturday, April 30, 2011. He was born on September 16, 1938 in Porter, Indiana. He was a resident of Portage for the past 47 years and was formerly of Liberty Township. He retired from U.S. Steel and was a member of Local 1066. After retirement Ronald worked at Chesterton Cemetery. Ronald served his country in the U.S. Army. He was also a member of American Legion Post 260 and an Associate member of the Vietnam Veterans #905.

He is survived by his wife of over 47 years, Kenita Kersten (nee Nelson) of Portage, IN; 2 daughters, Leanne M. Kersten of Valparaiso, IN; Lynne E. Kersten of Indianapolis, IN; 1 sister, Susan Kersten of Valparaiso, IN; good friend, Nancy Spencer and beloved dog, Packer.

He was preceded in death by his birth parents, Charles and Ella Kersten, and his parents, Charles and Ruth Snook.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, the Porter County Animal Shelter or to the family.

Funeral services are Saturday, May 7, 2011 at 12 p.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage with Rev. Frederick Hoover officiating. Burial will follow at Chesterton Cemetery. Visitation is Saturday just prior to the service from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, Portage. Call (219) 762-3013 or online at www.Reesfuneralhomes.com