Det. Sgt. Ronald H. Andersen
Retired Detective Sergeant Ronald H. Andersen of Foster, R.I. passed away on February 21, 2025 with his beloved wife, Lyn by his side. He was 2 days shy of his 83rd birthday. He was the son of the late Robert and Rita (Provost) Andersen. Ron grew up in Cranston, R.I. and attended Cranston High School where he was an All-State swimmer.
A dedicated public servant, he served honorably in the US Coast Guard for 4 years before embarking on a distinguished law enforcement career. He was a Cranston police officer for over 20 years and earned his Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Salve Regina College. After retiring from the Cranston Police Department Ron went on to serve as the High Sheriff of Providence County.
Ron was a man of many passions and accomplishments. In 2002 he was inducted into the Rhode Island Aquatic Hall of Fame for leading Cranston to its first New England title in 1959. He also was an All-State swimmer in 3 events in 1960 and was the New England record holder in the 160 yard Individual Medley. He was also an avid golfer, albeit a hacker like the rest of us, and loved spending time with his golf buddies at the 19th hole.
In addition to golf and swimming he was a great cook and loved putting on clambakes for family and friends, and even strangers. He was known to strike up a conversation with people and then invite them to the annual clambake which ultimately grew to over 200 people! He loved watching people eat his delicious food while he sat back and enjoyed a cold drink, whether it was a cold beer or mudslide.
Above all, Ron will be remembered as a tough guy with a giant heart; a man whose kindness and generosity touched countless lives. His legacy lives on through his family and the many lives he impacted through his service, athleticism, and generosity.
Besides his wife of 27 years he is survived by his brother, David Andersen of Belchertown, MA, his three children, Tracy Genest of East Providence, Patricia Antone (David) of Smithfield and Jean Souza (Ginny) of West Greenwich. He also leaves 8 grandchildren and 13 great- grandchildren. He was predeceased in death by his brother Bruce Andersen.
A special thank you to Suzanne Christiansen who made him laugh every single day and kept him going, and to the Moosup Valley Fire Department who came at lightening speed whenever he needed them.
Det. Sgt. Andersen was appointed to the Cranston Police Department in 1965, and was promoted to sergeant in September of 1978, and later served as a detective sergeant in the department’s Narcotics & Vice Division.