Distinguished businessman, devoted philanthropist, passionate activist
Ron Ansin. (Courtesy photo)
Ronald Marvin Ansin, a longtime resident of Harvard, died peacefully June 28, 2023. The eldest son of Sidney David Ansin and Sophie (Shachoy) Ansin, he was born March 28, 1934, in Worcester. Alongside his younger brother Ed, Ron spent his formative years in Athol, until the family relocated to Miami Beach in 1941.
Ron’s academic path led him to Phillips Academy in Andover. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Harvard College in 1956 and a Juris Doctorate from Yale Law School.
Upon completing law school, Ron settled in Massachusetts, where he assumed leadership of his family’s shoe factory in Fitchburg. Under Ron’s stewardship, Anwelt Shoe company expanded in size, and his own visibility and leadership in the footwear industry grew with it. Among Ron’s many successes in the industry was taking a stake in Cole Haan and helping the brand become one of the most recognized and respected footwear and apparel companies in the country, as well as representing the shoe industry in visits to the Carter White House. For his contribution and impact, Ron was inducted into the Footwear Industry Hall of Fame in 1996.
After publicly embracing his own identity, Ron assumed a prominent role in the realm of LGBTQ philanthropy, emerging as a leading figure in supporting and advancing nonprofits such as Boston’s Fenway Community Health Center and the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network (GLSEN). Ron’s contributions and leadership played a crucial part in the growth and accomplishments of these organizations. In recognition of his unwavering dedication and impact on the advancement of marriage equality, he was honored with the prestigious Icon Award by MassEquality in 2012, solidifying his reputation as a staunch advocate and philanthropist in the LGBTQ community.
Ron was active in Harvard for nearly 40 years and was instrumental in the creation of the McCurdy Track.
Above all, his love for people, especially his cherished family, shone through. Whenever asked about his most significant achievement, a radiant and knowing smile would spread across his face as he fondly recounted, “teaching my children and grandchildren to swim.” This statement encapsulated the essence of a man who achieved greatness in countless realms, yet found profound fulfillment in the simplest and most heartfelt moments of love and connection.
Ron leaves behind countless people whose lives have been bettered from his leadership, mentorship, and support. He is predeceased by his parents and his brother, Ed. He is survived by his husband, former mayor of Wilton Manors Jim Stork of Aventura, Florida; his daughter, Kim; his son, Ken, and daughter-in-law, Jane; and sons Barry and Robert; nephews Andy and James, and niece Stephanie; his former wife, Betsey Ansin; his former partner, Anthony Corey; his grandchildren: Kris, Ryan, Kurt, Nick, Indigo, Olly, Scott, Peter, Ben, and Libby; and his two great-grandchildren, Eliza and Ronald Logan. Thanks to Ron, they all know how to swim.
A celebration of life is planned for the fall.
