Ronald Sanborn

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ronald Sanborn (known by all who loved him as “Kool Ron”), a House Attendant at the Kimpton Theta Times Square New York for 32 years.

Ronald was a devoted father of four – Ronnie Jr., Stefanie, Carlie, and Nicholas – and nothing made him prouder. His kids remember him as a father who was spontaneous, funny, and endlessly positive, always trying to see the best side of the worst scenario.

Ron loved cooking for the whole family, roller skating, fishing, and filling every gathering with laughter. His passions were legendary: a shoe collection of 60-90 pairs, a weakness for fedora hats, and an ear for music that ran from Lady Gaga – whose “Bad Romance” he'd blast from his truck with the windows down – to old school hip hop and Italian classics. He was a die-hard fan of the New York Rangers, a Wayne Gretzky fan, and a man who went all out for his passions.

Ron's coworker of two decades, Jules Rochelin, recalls when he first met Ron in the early 2000s. “Welcome to the team, kiddo,” Ron said to him. Jules described Ron as caring, hilarious, and bigger than life – the kind of man who'd shrug off the cold while shoveling snow in winter, insisting he didn't need a coat. “My kids called him Uncle Ronnie,” said Jules.

Ron's coworker Tolbert Lapomarel remembers him as “more than a coworker – he would brighten up your day. You could sit down and talk to him about anything.” The two shared a deep bond over motorcycles and four-wheelers, and Tolbert still holds onto the Kawasaki jacket Ron gave him as a birthday gift, along with his helmet. “Look what my brother got for me,” Tolbert had said about Ron at the time.

Ronald is survived by his children, his siblings, and many beloved friends and colleagues. Ron's larger than-life warmth leaves a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to have known him.