Ronald Karl Bystrom

LAKE PARK - Ronald “Ronnie” Karl Bystrom of Lake Park FL, formerly of Closter NJ, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family and loved ones on February 1, 2024. Ronnie was born February 22, 1960, in Brooklyn NY in to Barbara Jean (Marks) and Karl Gustav Bystrom. He attended P.S. 198 and Andries Hudde Junior High School, and was a member of the UMC in East Flatbush Brooklyn, participating in the basketball and Boy Scout programs. An avid baseball little leaguer he along with his brother, a member of the Flatbush Street Hockey league. His love of sports extended to skiing and golf and he was a lifelong NY Mets and NY Jets fan. He loved concerts, live music, and especially the Rolling Stones and Eagles. Ronnie loved his family and friends, and Ronnie was always there when you needed him selflessly.

During the 1970’s his family relocated to Closter NJ, where he attended Northern Valley Regional High School. He was a popular student establishing many long-term and lasting friendships to this day, and was often considered the unofficial “Mayor of Closter”. In the late 1980s he found his love of aviation. While working full time, he attended and excelled at the Teterboro School of Aeronautics and became certified in multiple fields, distinguishing himself by his elevated level of proficiency expertise and professionalism.

Due to his passion and proficiency at his newly found love of aeronautics, he accepted a transfer and relocated to West Palm Beach FL, where he settled in 1997. He was the Service Team Manager for Gulfstream at Palm Beach International Airport leading a team of mechanics and technicians, servicing many VIP customer’s private jets. He was a popular fixture in and around Palm Beach and an extremely social man.

In 2014, he met the love of his life, Kelly, and soon established himself as her soulmate and partner. He and Kelly were married in February of 2018. Together with his wife Kelly, they shared a wonderful life, and he unselfishly helped his wife care for her father in his elder years. He was loved by all he encountered and was a strong and loyal friend, always willing to help those in need. He was kind, funny, generous and gracious. He managed to be all we aspire to be as human beings, becoming a standard bearer for decency.

Ronnie is survived by his wife Kelly, his siblings Ken and Carol, adoring niece Avery and loving nephews Kenny and Elijah Bystrom. He is also survived by stepdaughters Kimberly and Michele Samuels and was the adored “Pa” to his Step-Granddaughter Piper.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date