GRAND HAVEN, Mich. — Christmas is not going to be the same in Grand Haven.
The community recently lost long-time holiday icon, Ron Carlisle, better known around town as Santa Claus.
"Absolutely magical," said Jeremy Leski, a long-time friend of Carlisle's. "Just a genuinely good human being."
According to those who knew Carlisle the best, that magic will be missed around Grand Haven.
"What he does is teach children to believe in something they can't see or touch. Santa is love, and magic and happiness," said Angela Taylor, another close friend of Carlisle's. "That describes Santa Ron."
Carlisle was well known as Grand Haven's own Santa Claus, spending time with people of all ages every holiday season.
"Kindness and the understanding and the compassion that he has for anyone that he meets," Taylor said.
All week, posts on social media have shown love for Carlisle, sharing stories of families meeting Santa either for the first time or the hundredth.
Carlisle's wife, Judy, said the tributes are well-earned.
"He deserves it," Judy said.
And that being his Mrs. Claus was an honor.
"He was just a wonderful, loving, caring person who just loved people, loved the Lord, most of all, but he cared deeply for everyone," Judy said.
Carlisle's friends said the magic he leaves behind won't wear off.
"He wanted kids, he wanted even the adults still to believe," Leski said.
Friends and family have set up a GoFundMe to help with unexpected costs for Judy. You can find it by clicking here.
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