Ronald J. Hollerand
Born on July 29, 1940, in New Bedford, MassachusettsPassed on March 26, 2026 in Melbourne, Florida
Ronald J. Hollerand, 85, of Melbourne, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026. He was born on July 29, 1940, in New Bedford, Massachusetts, to Ledwina Blackwelder and John Hollerand.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Maxine Hollerand, who passed in October 2019; and his younger siblings, Paul Chartier and Milan Yancey.
He is survived by his children: Ronald M. Hollerand and his wife, Melissa Hollerand; Aurora V. Plourde and her husband, Harold J. Plourde Jr.; and stepdaughter Maxine Banon and her husband, Paul Banon. He is also survived by his former daughter-in-law, Barbara Hollerand, and by his cherished grandchildren, Parker Hollerand, Riley Hollerand, and Aria Hollerand.
At the age of three, Ron moved with his family to Melbourne Village, Florida, where he attended Ruth Henagar Elementary School and Melbourne High School. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he served his country with honor and distinction for 22 years. During his military career, he was a member of both the 101st Airborne Division (“Screaming Eagles”) and the 82nd Airborne Division (“All-American”), serving both in the United States and abroad, including a final assignment in Germany.
His service was recognized with numerous commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Air Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Parachute Badge, Presidential Unit Citation, Army Commendation Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation, Valorous Unit Citation, Aircraft Crewman Badge, Vietnam Parachute Badge, two Overseas Service Bars, and the Good Conduct Medal (5th Award), among others.
After retiring from the Army, Ron returned to Florida, where he worked as a Building Manager for Q-Bit in Palm Bay until his retirement.
Ron shared a devoted and loving marriage with Maxine Hollerand. The two met in February 1961 and were married by September of that same year, building a life together filled with love, laughter, and companionship. As active members and greeters at St. John’s Episcopal Church, they warmly welcomed all who entered, often delighting others with their joyful personalities—especially during the Christmas season, when they could be seen wearing reindeer antlers and spreading holiday cheer.
A man of deep curiosity and dedication, Ron had a lifelong passion for history and genealogy. He spent countless hours researching and documenting his family’s lineage, creating a legacy of knowledge for future generations. He also had a special interest in Civil War history and enjoyed sharing what he learned with others. In retirement, he and Maxine participated in historical reenactments as members of the Sons of Confederate Veterans.
Ron will be especially remembered for his quick wit and sense of humor, which brought laughter and light to all who knew him. His humor, along with the rich family history he preserved, remains a lasting gift to his family and a legacy that will continue through future generations.
A funeral service in honor of Ronald J. Hollerand will be held on May 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 610 Young Street, Melbourne, Florida. A reception will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Charlie and Jake’s, 490 E. Eau Gallie Boulevard, Indian Harbour Beach, Florida.
Ron’s life was one of service, love, laughter, and legacy. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
