Ronald Edward VanKalker

Ron VanKalker, age 77, of New Richmond, Ohio, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 12, 2026, at Good Samaritan Hospital.

Ron was the beloved husband of 12 years to Brenda E. Bushong. Devoted honorary father to Gabby Feldman (Maryland) and Jason Feldman (and wife Emily Feldman) (Ohio). Loving grandfather to Zoey Feldman and Jasper Feldman. Loving uncle to his nieces Mindy, Nikki, and Noel. Preceded in death by his brother Nicholas VanKalker, and his parents Donald and Dolores VanKalker.

Ron was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan and was a graduate of Western Hills High School, Cincinnati, Ohio and the University of Cincinnati where he obtained a degree in Psychology. He was a US Navy SeaBee for 2 years, and retired from Cincinnati Public Schools where he was a Facilities Manager, an IT technician, a Special Needs Paraprofessional and Substitute teacher. He held a special place in his heart for his students with special needs. He was also a motorcycle enthusiast and an avid Nature Photographer and never met a bird that he didn’t want to photograph.

He will be laid to rest with his parents in Michigan. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center.