The funeral for Ronald "Ron" Hudson Kearnes will be at 4:30pm Friday, January 25, 2013 at the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home in Rochester. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the chapel.

Ronald, 61 died at his home in Rochester, surrounded by his family on January 22, 2013.  Ron was born August 22, 1951 in Warrenton Virginia to Ellen and Hasel Kearnes. On May 15, 1982 he married Debbie Browning in Manassas Virginia.  The couple lived in Manassas Virginia until 1992 when they moved to Rochester, MN.

Ron worked for IBM from 1969 until retiring in 2001.  He also cofounded with his partners, Azotic Coating Technology in 1993.  Azotic Coating developed and patented Mystic Fire Topaz, and a multitude of Surface Enhanced Designer Gemstones; Aurora Crystals, Mermaid Crystals etc. He remained president of Azotic Coating Technology until his passing. He is beloved by many in the gemstone industry.

Ron is survived by his wife Debbie (Browning) Kearnes, daughter Kimberly Hicks, son-in-law LaMar Hicks, grandson Hudson Hicks, and a brother Wayne Gray.

He is preceded in death by his mother and father.

Ron will be remembered for his kind and gentle ways and his fun loving outlook on life.  He enjoyed spending time with his wife and driving his 1978 Blue Water houseboat on the Mississippi.  His greatest enjoyment was spending time with his family and playing with his grandson.

Macken Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com