Ronald E. Rice, 63, of 52 Valley View died Sunday, Jan. 10 in Bay State Mary Lane Hospital in Ware.

    He leaves a son, Shawn D. Rice and his wife Jaime stationed at Hanscom A.F.B., Bedford, MA; three daughters, Cristy A. Rice, Melissa L. Rice and Robin A. Wagher all of Ware; his mother, Velmer (Frietsch) Rice of Spencer; two brothers, Donald T. Rice (twin brother) and his wife Kathleen of Spencer, and Bradley S. Rice and his wife Deborah of New Braintree; a sister, Susan A. Rice-Myers and her husband Daniel of Sutton; 9 grandchildren, nieces and nephews and his cat “Smokey”.

    Ronald was a self employed cabinet maker for most of his life, retiring in 2007.

    He was born in Worcester, the son of the late Earl D. Rice. He later served his country during the Vietnam War with the U.S. Air Force. He was a member of the Warren Lions Club. Ron had been recently researching his family genealogy. He was a beloved father and grandfather.

    Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 13 at 11 a.m. in the J.HENRI MORIN & SON FUNERAL HOME, 23 Maple Terr., Spencer. Burial will follow with Military Honors in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. A calling hour will be held on Wednesday prior to the service from 10 to 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Second Chance Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 136, E. Brookfield, Ma. 01515.