Obituary of Ron Roessner
Ronald Peter Roessner (Ron) passed away peacefully with his loving wife, children, and daughter-in-laws by his side on September 1st, 2023. In 2017 Ron began a battle with cancer that was eventually diagnosed as CNS-lymphoma of the brain. Ron beat the odds and lived through the treatment. After that he took his new lease on life and lived what his family fondly remembers as “the best five years of his life.” Ron made it his mission to love those around him deeply and with a gusto that only Ron could bring. Ron spent those years playing with his grandchildren, hosting elaborate parties, starting a neighborhood association, and making ample time to build lasting memories with his family on vacations and at home. Ron also spent this time caring for his brother Rich and his wife Velma as well as their children as Rich was confronted with his own battle of terminal cancer. Ron & Rich’s bond found a depth of love during that time that was profound for those who witnessed it.
In September 2022, a routine checkup revealed that the treatment Ron received during his first battle had resulted in a new form of cancer that would eventually be diagnosed as MDS. This one would require a stem cell donor, and while the donor bank found someone with a 100% match and the graft took, complications led to a 78 day stay in the hospital before Ron and the family decided together that it was time to let Ron’s body rest and for him to join his mother (Tina), and brother (Rich) in heaven.
Ron’s family is thankful for the Juravinski Hospital team that made space for the family to be present and comfortable with Ron during his final days. Ron is remembered by his beloved wife, Jean (nee Merrick), and children Rachel, Richard (Rebecca), Peter (Becky), and grandchildren Jedda, Hadley, Andrew, & Henry. As well as Ron’s dad, Andreas. However, Ron’s impact was large and we know he will also be remembered by his extended family, church community, neighborhood, and past colleagues.
Ron was also passionate about building safe and secure shelters for those living on the margins in El Salvador. In lieu of flowers, we ask for donations to be made to Shelter Canada (and The Great Grape Stomp) in Ron’s memory.
In keeping with Ron’s wishes, funeral arrangements have been entrusted with the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL HOME, 585 Carlton St., St. Catharines. Cremation has taken place and the family welcomes guests for a time of visitation on Thursday, September 7th 2023 from 2:00 – 4:00PM and 6:00 – 8:00PM with a Celebration of Life to be held at the Bethany Community Church, 1388 Third St. Louth, St. Catharines at 11:00AM with no burial on Friday, September 8th 2023.
Donation Information:
Website: https://www.shelterhelps.com/grapestomp
In memory of : Ron Roessner
Recipient name: Jean Roessner
Recipient E-mail: jaroessner@gmail.com