Remembering Ron Seman at Indiana Dunes

The late Ron Seman, a well-regarded trailmaster of the Indiana Dunes, was fondly remembered on a clear Friday evening. About 25 people gathered to walk one of his favored routes, Trails 9 and 10, at Indiana Dunes State Park, which leads to a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan.

On July 24, 2026, hikers descended a portion of Trail 9 in a memorial walk dedicated to Seman. He passed away in his sleep at 64, leaving behind his family and many hiking enthusiasts. Participants included his widow, Susan Seman, who joined despite her ailments. The group met on the beach, sharing memories as the sun set in a vivid orange hue.

Seman’s Friday evening hikes started at the State Park’s Nature Center. He shared extensive knowledge of the dunes, flora, and fauna. Sometimes, he entertained with what he called a “10% story.” Tiffany Yorek, a regular on the trails, mentioned that Seman built a strong sense of community that continues today. “Every time we hike together, the bond remains,” she said.

Ryan Pagell, leading the hike, added, “He will be with us on every hike here and forever.” Barry Tharp, another participant, recalled meeting Seman on this trail eight years ago. “I’ve never met anyone quite like him,” Tharp said. Seman guided many through the Dunes with enthusiasm and deep knowledge.

His love for boosting the monarch butterfly population in the region was well-known. Seman’s “Monster Dune Challenge,” a trek spanning all 22 miles of the park’s trails, showcased his passion. He led these even in harsh winter conditions.

Ed Oziminski joined one of Seman’s last hikes in June. The day was so hot, the group cooled off in Lake Michigan. “If we had known it was the last time,” Oziminski reflected. Marcella Bernat, who joined the walk, shared how Seman helped her through a personal loss. For a year, they hiked and canoed together daily.

Bernat expressed gratitude by painting Seman paddling a canoe into a sunset, a gift that moved him deeply. At the memorial’s west end, Connor Zelasko prepared for a circle gathering. Zelasko is working on naming a dune after Seman, aiming to honor his influence.

Zelasko, who co-led recovery hikes with Seman, noted how these walks help people reconnect with life. Though saddened by Seman’s passing, he found solace in knowing others felt similarly. “A thousand felt they lost a best friend,” Zelasko remarked.

The article concluded with a nod to the community Seman built, emphasizing his lasting impact. Seman’s legacy lives on in the memories and friendships formed on miles of trails.