CHINA – Ronnie Retamar, 57, of China, was born on Feb. 8, 1966 to Puerto Rican parents in St. Vincent Hospital in the major industrial city of Bridgeport, Conn. He lived a colorful life filled with love, laughter, and adventure and was called home before dawn on Tuesday, April 18, 2023 after a prolonged battle with Scleroderma.

In his early 20s, he journeyed to Maine, where he met his life partner, Steven Keaten. They were together for over three decades, sharing their lives and building a beautiful home until Ronnie’s passing.

Ronnie grew up in Connecticut and Puerto Rico, attending schools in Connecticut and earned a CNA certificate from the Job Corp in Bangor. He worked in many places as a CNA and later as a waiter in several restaurants in Kennebec County until disabilities forced him to retire much sooner than he wanted. He found deep fulfillment in his careers where he took great pride in caring for his patients and making sure customers always received a great dining experience.

Ronnie was a happy, non-judgmental soul who welcomed everyone with an open heart. A heart of 24-karat gold. He had a contagious spirit and laughter that would spark up any room and he never missed a chance to dance. Oh, how he could dance, having learned from his siblings.

Ronnie was also very connected with his native Taino roots and collected jewelry and memorabilia of Indigenous communities. He loved watching films and traveling, having visited all 50 States and he was a lover of photos and memories. He enjoyed hosting family gatherings and was always the life of the party. He maintained community over social media and phone calls with loved ones, near and far, and his warm personality would make anyone feel at home. Gloria, his mother, will especially miss the long calls and the sound of his voice, sharing stories, and catching up on each other’s lives.

Ever dashing and dapper, Ronnie had an eye for the finer things in life and his appreciation for elegance, jewelry and thrifting was a shared passion between mother and son. Much of his time was spent antiquing with his partner, Steven and sister-in-law, Julie Searles, tending to his plants and gardening. His home was a testament to his impeccable taste. His home was his sanctuary, and his doors were always open.

Throughout his life, Ronnie remained a constant source of unconditional love and support for his family. From birthdays to graduations and weddings, Ronnie was always present for every significant life event. Despite the distance between them, he never missed an opportunity to be there for his daughter, Jenny Patron and his grandchildren’s important milestones. His commitment to his family was a testament to his unwavering loyalty and nurturing spirit.

As the family historian, photos of his ancestry and family were of utmost importance to him. They were some of his most prized possessions, and he valued them dearly. Ronnie and his partner, Steven, were very active in local politics. They were a force to be reckoned with, and ever the humanitarian, Ronnie was passionate about making a tangible difference.

Ronnie’s family and friends are at peace knowing he has left his earthly home to join his lost loved ones who joyfully welcome his spirit.

Ronnie was predeceased by his father, Edelmiro Retamar; brother, Alfredo “Freddy” Carrion; and son, Andrew Keaten.

He is survived by his beloved mother, Gloria Esther Morales-Alicea of Bridgeport, Conn.; his lifelong partner, Steven Keaten of China; his brother, Angel Carrion of Camuy, Puerto Rico, his sister, Marilyn Galindo and husband Luis Galindo of Fitchburg, Mass., his brother, Robin Retamar and his sister, Michelle Retamar of Bridgeport, Conn.; his daughter, Jenny Patron and his grandchildren Marcus Ramirez and Jaydalee Ramirez of Meriden, Conn.; his son, Evan Keaten and wife Lydiyah Hawkins of Clyde, Texas; his daughter, Sarah Keaten and his grandchildren Sapphira Davis and Julian Davis of Abilene, Texas; his brother-in-law, Daniel Keaten of Brighton Plantation, his brother-in-law, Derek Keaten and wife Donna Keaten, his sisters-in-law Julie Searles and husband Larry Searles, Sherri Arris and husband Robert Arris all of Skowhegan; and close friend Buffi Thibeau of Winslow; along with dozens of nieces and nephews who adored their beloved “Tio Ronnie”.

Ronnie’s family was his greatest devotion, and he was loved and cherished by all who knew him. He left behind a legacy of love, kindness, and compassion that will continue to touch the lives of those he left behind. Ronnie Retamar will never be forgotten, may he rest in peace, surrounded by grace and love in the beauty of paradise.

A graveside memorial service to honor the life of Ronnie Retamar will be held at 11 a.m. on May 30, at the Mount Rest Cemetery in Athens. Following the ceremony, a joyful celebration of his life will be hosted at the Somerset Academy on Academy Street in Athens.

The arrangements have been thoughtfully handled by Smart & Edwards Funeral Home in Skowhegan. Family and friends are welcome to join together in paying their respects and celebrating the memory of Ronnie’s remarkable life.

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