Ronald A. Kish

1942 - 2026

Venice - Ronald A. Kish, a man whose smile was as consistent as his golf swing, passed away due to complications from congestive heart failure after a 27-day stay at Sarasota Memorial Hospital in Venice. Devotedly cared for by his wife, Vickie, he passed peacefully on February 6, 2026, at Tidewell Hospice House in Venice, Florida with his daughter and son-in-law by his side as he left his earthly bounds.

Born February 11, 1942, in Columbus, Ohio, to Stephen and Susanna Kish, Ron grew up in Columbus. He attended Saint Augustine Elementary and was a proud 1961 graduate of Linden-McKinley High. Ron went on to serve our country in the U.S. Army Reserve before embarking on a 32-year career as a draftsman at Western Electric.

Ron never met a stranger-seriously, NEVER! He lived a life defined by his exuberant storytelling, laughter, and the pursuit of the perfect day-whether on the slopes, the golf course, or watching the sunset at South Jetty Beach in Venice. He was known for his smile, sense of humor, and the devoted friendships he maintained over the years with his Linden-McKinley classmates and Western Electric buddies.

In 1965, Ronnie married Lynda Gobert, making their final home in Reynoldsburg, where they raised their children and were parishioners at St. Pius X Catholic Church. After retiring in 1997, Ron and Lynda volunteered at Mount Carmel East Hospital. Following Lynda's passing, Ron found love again and was blessed to spend the past eight years with his treasured wife, Vickie.

Ron's children share a personal message: Vickie, please know you hold a special place in our hearts forever. Thank you for loving our Dad so completely and for making his final years so full of life and laughter!

On any given day, Ron could be found at his "favorite place in the whole wide world"-the Jetty-where he regaled anyone who would listen to his entertaining tales. Whether telling stories, talking golf, or gathered with the "Balford Square Gang," Big Ron made everyone feel like an old friend.

In addition to his parents, Ron was preceded in death by his loving wife of nearly 47 years, Lynda, and brother Stephen. His cherished fur baby, Penny, crossed the Rainbow Bridge two weeks before Ronnie's passing.

He leaves behind a family who will miss his smile, his hugs, and his sensationalized stories, including his wife, Vickie; his children, Kim (Dave) and Craig (Shana); his grandsons, Rylan and Hayden, of whom he was so very proud; his favorite sister, Marilyn; baby brother, Rick (Cathy); lifelong friends Gary & Teresa Sama; Vickie's children, Kellie (John), John (Kelly), Adam (Kimberly), and Joe (Stephanie); along with many beloved nieces and nephews-Ron cherished a special bond with his nephews, Stevie, Gary, and Brian. Ron also leaves behind many dear friends, including 60 years of unforgettable friendships with the Balford Square Gang.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Venice, for the exceptional care extended to our family and to Tidewell Hospice House for their compassion.

Ron has gone on to a heavenly place where the drives are long, the fairways are endless, and he is, no doubt, giving the angels tips on their short game. To celebrate Ron's life, the family invites you to consider donating to First Tee - Central Ohio.org, ensuring his love for the game of golf lives on.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 2-5 p.m. at The Homestead at the Preserve, 5100 Morse Road, Columbus, 43230.