Ronald Richard Mann

Ronald Richard Mann was born March 18, 1958 in Berlin, NH to “Pop” Ronald Coleman Mann and Lucille Lafeuille Mann as the oldest of his Pop’s six children. He is predeceased by his Pop and brother Louie Anthony Mann. Ron is survived by his partner of 37.5 “loooooonnngg” years, Nandee Ann Willets of Pepperell, MA, and his “Ma” Alice Mann of Hollis, NH. Ron leaves his brothers: Timmy Mann of Manchester, NH, Jeffrey Mann of Nashua, NH and Joseph Mann of Hollis, NH In addition, his two little sisters, Christine Mann Lamson of Weare, NH and Tina Mann of Berlin, NH As well as the huge, loving, fun “Mann Clan”.

Proceeding a short childhood in Berlin, NH, Ron was raised by his Pop and Alice in Providence, RI and moved with his family to Hollis, NH in 1974. Ron gained many friends in Hollis/Brookline/Nashua through his various activities and graduated from Hollis High School.

After high school, Ron enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He was honorably discharged then met “the love of his life” while enjoying his very single life! He was employed at Nightingale Roofing and promoted to manage a crew before starting his rock career with Dawes Drilling and Blasting of Pepperell. He was an incredible employee for over 33 years as a skilled airtac and hydraulic drill operator. Not only was he an honest, dedicated employee but a wonderful partner for 37.5 “loooooonnngg” years to Nandee and their animals at “Rivers Edge Farm” in Pepperell, MA and a guardian of the Covered Bridge.

Not being parents, Ron and Nandee mentored many children through their love and experience with animals. Rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming worked so well as a reward for all the hard work as the role model Ron embodied. Many “kids” learned to push wheelbarrows, unload and stack hay/grain, bathe horses, sweep, organize. They also learned the importance of safety, swimming in a moving river. By Ron’s words “do it right the first time or don’t bother” and “let me show you”. He was well known as “the hay warden” and his insistence on immaculate, level, fresh, clean water tubs!

Ron was also an avid Harley Davidson owner, giving the “first ride” to many. His passion for his career, his farm animals and especially wonderful dogs never wavered, always riding close to home. His infectious Patriotism, the American flag, the Bald Eagle, were daily sources of pride.

One of Ron’s greatest Joys was delivering and raising 3 foals through saddle starting and riding for each one. He would hop on any horse as a safety check.

His reputation as Santa for his many nieces and nephews was made public when riding his Harley, many Christmas Days, usually riding while waving the "peace" sign. His influence on the next generation and use of social media was never more evident than during his 2.5 year battle with Esophageal Cancer. He endured a long road of treatment and surgeries.

The special relationship he built with his nieces and nephews was his greatest source of pride. Teaching, listening, hard work hand-in-hand built his legacy. He left loving his Great Pyrenees “Freedom”, the most amazing dog.

A memorial visitation will be held in the McGaffigan Family Funeral Home, 37 Main St. (Rte. 113) Pepperell, MA on Saturday January 2, from 1 – 3 PM. Relatives and friends respectfully invited. Facial coverings and social distancing will apply. In lieu of flowers, any gifts in Ron’s Honor may be made towards feed at Orde Farm Hollis NH, Townsend Farmers Exchange, Food for Pets Amherst NH and (of course) the universal gift of money.

Ron lived and died in reality. If a good, honest Mann with a clean conscience needs and asks…that’s included in his obituary.