In Memory of James Christopher Ronay

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of former IME president James Christopher "Chris" Ronay on December 26, 2024. He was 80 years old.

Chris was known as a gentle soul who was kind and gracious to those who crossed his path. He was a selfless mentor and a friend to many. Chris’s selflessness was no more indicative than in his commitment to public service which began in the U.S. Army and later as a special agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI). Even upon retirement, Chris continued to serve as a member of The Society of Former Special Agents to the FBI, Inc.

Chris’s distinguished leadership qualities continued with his service to the commercial explosives industry. Beginning in 1994, Chris led IME for 19 years and his legacy continues to this day. It was Ronay’s innovation and vision of a safer commercial explosives industry that led to the development of IMESAFR. Ronay also developed the idea of creating inert kits for law enforcement training which is a public safety service that IME continues providing to this day. It was also under Ronay’s leadership that IME SLPs 22 and 23 were incorporated into the federal hazardous materials regulations.

Chris is survived by his wife Patricia "Pat" Alexander Ronay; son, John Kyle Ronay (Winter); daughter, Amanda Ronay; brothers, Richard Ronay, Vincent Ronay, and Michael Ronay; grandchildren, Kayle, Harper, Brooks, and Chase. He also leaves behind many friends on the IME steering committee, members of the IME board of governors, and IME staff who worked with him on a daily basis.

IME has been in touch with the Ronay family and understand a Celebration of Life is currently being planned for a later date in March. We will share any additional information as it becomes available.