Ernest "Ernie" Ronn was born on Anne Street in Negaunee, Michigan, in 1925. He started work as an underground miner after high school in 1943. Ronn entered service in the United States Army in 1944 and returned to mine work following his discharge in 1946. In 1970, Ronn was appointed sub-district director, District 33, of the United Steelworkers of America and remained in this position until his retirement in 1996. Ronn held numerous appointed political positions, including member of the United States Interior Department's Advisory Committee on Federal Metal and Nonmetal Mine Safety (1971-1975) and served as the committee's chairman (1974-1975). In 1997, Ronn was inducted into the Upper Peninsula Labor Hall of Fame. For a complete history of Ronn's life and work, see his published memoir entitled "52 Steps Underground." Ronn died on December 18, 2004.
From the description of Ernest Ronn papers, 1946-1999. (Olson Library, Northern Michigan University). WorldCat record id: 52333817
