A large part of the family business was the F. Ronstadt Company, one of the first large hardware and supply stores in the Southwest. It developed out of the carriage shop founded by Michael's grandfather Federico (Fred) Ronstadt in 1888. At various times, both Papa and Michael worked there. During Michael's tenure the store sold lawnmowers and other motorized equipment, and as a reward for record sales, Honda sponsored a trip to Japan for him.
The trip took place one week after Michael and I were married. Michael had planned the trip long before we decided to tie the knot and, as his mother Ruthmary Copeman Ronstadt had recently passed away (and I had not), he invited his father to go with him.
While Gilbert and Michael were in Japan, Honda hosted a number of events involving traditional Japanese Arts and ceremonies as part of their programs of travel and education. These included classes, flower arranging, geisha ceremonies, ceramics... and of course the tea ceremony. Papa picked up antique ivory dolls to add to my collection. He painted the Japanese tea ceremony on the gift card that was with the dolls.
