Ronald John Baum, 74, passed away on Friday, May 1, 2015 in Virginia Beach, VA. Born on February 18, 1941 in Jersey City, NJ, he was the son of John and Matilda Baum. During and after high school, Ronnie worked in a local nursery where he developed his green thumb. Shortly after, Ronnie served honorably in the U.S. Navy for four years as Medical Corpsman. Following his military service, Ronnie worked as a Ships Salesman with Julious Rothschild for 20 years and then returned to his love of horticulture, operating Tiny Tree Bonsai Studio for 35 years.
As a child, Ronnie played guitar at over 500 charity shows to earn himself the title, “Charity King” in New Jersey. Ronnie’s 500 performances included Carnegie Hall, The Waldorf Astoria, The Steel Pier in Atlantic City, and many other venues. He was photographed with the likes of Les Paul, Mary Ford, and the Four Lads.
Ronnie’s enlistment into the Navy lead him to the Hampton Roads area, where he discovered his love for horseback riding. He was a member of the Tidewater Western Riders for 40 years where he participated in many riding events, parades, trail rides, and even performed as a Rodeo Clown.
Ronnie’s love of gardening eventually lead him to the art of Bonsai. Ronnie became the President of the Virginia Bonsai Society where he served for 13 years. While serving at the Botanical Gardens of Norfolk, Ronnie also instructed in the City of Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, as well as many gardening clubs along the Atlantic coast. Eventually, Ronnie’s love for Bonsai lead him to Hawaii and many other destinations.
Ronnie’s true love was that of his fellow man and he demonstrated this through his 32 years of devoted recovery in AA. The number of people he touched is countless.
He is survived by his son, William J. Baum and his fiance, Michele Wiles of Virginia Beach; and a cousin Geraldine Priest of New Jersey.
The family will greet friends Thursday, May 7, 2015, from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm at Family Choice Funerals & Cremations, 5401 Indian River Rd., Virginia Beach, VA 23464. The family will also greet guests Friday, May 8, 2015, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at St. Luke Catholic Church, 2304 Salem Rd., Virginia Beach, VA 23456, with a Funeral Mass to follow at 11:00 am. Interment will be held Friday, May 8, 2015, 3:00 pm at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery, 5310 Milners Rd., Suffolk, VA 23434.
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Thank you, Mr. Baum for your service to our country.
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Dear Billy & family, I am so very sorry for your loss. Your dad has been part of my family for years with my mother, father and I. He spent many a Christmas Eve with all of us. He was spoiled by my mother who use to make him special breads, desserts and meals that she would send over for him to enjoy. It will be very different with him not around, but I know he is with his parents and my parents enjoying his new life now with no health issues.
Though our relationship began from business, (I was Ronnie’s “tax man”), it grew to be a genuine friendship over the past quarter century. We looked forward to seeing each other each time we met to share life stories, even if was only a couple times a year during tax season. My staff also very much enjoyed his joyfulness and the fun he brought to the office. Ronnie will be missed. Anchors aweigh my friend.
Knew Ronnie for 30+ years. Proud to have been a couple of his “bubbas”. He lived what he preached, “it is what it is”, “I’m right where I’m supposed to be” and “Gods in charge”. Guess he will be chairing the Wed night meeting this week, saving us a seat. Love ya man.
Sad to hear of Ronnie’s passing. We were friends back in the 60’s at 3-J Ranch. He taught me to play cords on the guitar (left-handed) and all of us out there had a great deal of fun together in those days.
My sincere condolences to his family. I know he will be missed.
So very sorry to read of Ronnie’s passing. My condolences are extended to his son and fiance.
While a member of the local Bonsai Society, he taught me the art during his many workshops at his Tiny Tree Studio and during society meetings. he also reignited my overall interest in gardening. He also was a dedicated and committed member of the Society who gave both time and love in demonstrating his passion for the art.
May his soul rest in peace.
RI will miss you.