Ronald Karle

Professional journalist, skilled editor, and loyal Spartan Ronald F. Karle, age 83, passed away on  March 4, 2021. Owner and president of Karle Publications, Inc., Ron specialized in the writing  and publication of magazines, periodicals and marketing materials. He was a 1966 graduate of the School of Journalism at Michigan State University, where he worked as a student copy  editor and columnist for the State News. Ron was director of publications for the MSU Alumni  Association and editor of the MSU Alumni Magazine for over 10 years. The Alumni Magazine won 14 national awards during his tenure, and was twice honored as one of the nation’s top  ten college alumni publications. In 1975, Ron received the Outstanding Alumnus Award from  MSU’s College of Communication Arts. He also served as editor of the Clinton County News,  and worked for the Detroit Bureau of the Associated Press, the Lansing State Journal, and the  Detroit Free Press.

Ron was born in Detroit on December 6, 1937 to Frederick J. and Ruth (Becker) Karle. He lived  in East Lansing throughout his professional years and into retirement. He was a dedicated  member of the University Club of MSU, served many years on the Board of Directors and was  Club President in 1987-88. Friends and colleagues appreciated Ron for his dry sense of humor  and his passion for all things Spartan. Ron enriched the lives of those who were lucky enough to  call him friend. 

Ron is survived by four cousins; Suzanne Karle, Gilbert Karle, Janet Karle DeCook, and Katherine  Karle McClure. A special thank you is extended to the staff and caregivers at Burcham Hills in  East Lansing, and Sparrow Hospital.  

For those who wish to honor Ron’s life, contributions in his memory may be made to one of the MSU School of Journalism Scholarship Funds or to the University Club of MSU Staff Scholarship  Endowment. Arrangements are by the Estes-Leadley Lansing Chapel.