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Ronald Olmstead Obituary
In lieu of flowers, a donation may be sent in Ron's memory to: Hobart and William Smith Colleges, The Geneva Scholarship Associates, Alumni House, 615 S. Main St., Geneva, N.Y. 14456 or the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 10 Brookline Place West, 6th Fl., Boston, Mass., 02445 in Ron's name.
Ron was born February 4, 1952 to the late Frederick Law Olmstead II and Louise Theresa (Varno) Olmstead. He attended Geneva High School, and was a member of the graduating class of 1970. He attended Hobart and William Smith College as one of the first recipients of a scholarship from the Geneva Scholarship Associates, and graduated in 1974. He went on to earn his MBA from Cornell University. Ron became an extremely successful entrepreneur who founded Olmstead Associates, Inc., a global securities industry consulting firm in 1994. His company is a leader in the field, partnering with the world's foremost securities industry firms, to "bridge the gap" between business and technology. Above all, Ron was a devoted husband and father. As successful as he was in business, his world revolved around his family.
He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Debra A. (Null) and daughters Regan, Avery and Trinity. He was the dearly loved brother of Patricia Wilson, Geneva, N.Y., Eugene (Linda), Penn Yan, N.Y., Fredrick Law III (Ann Aiko), Honolulu, Hawaii, and the late Richard Olmstead of Boston, Mass.; the adored son-in-law of Lynda and the late John Null; and a cherished brother-in-law, uncle, great-uncle, cousin and friend. He will be fondly remembered by his family, friends, classmates, colleagues and the business community he served.
Arrangements are being made by Palmisano-Mull Funeral Home, Geneva, N.Y. To sign an online guestbook, please visit www.palmfh.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ronald Olmstead
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Wayne Terry
September 18, 2019
A really nice business associate that became a good friend. Glad I had the opportunity to know Ron. They dont make many like him anymore. Remembering you today!
Bruce Hardy
February 21, 2013
Debbie & Ron' Girls -
With the hope of reaching out after many years - I have discovered that my efforts to catch-up and share memories of family with my friend and "roommate" from Beacon Street have come to a shocking and sudden end.
I will carry thoughts of his positive and infectious spirit with me as all who new him will.
We take so much for granted and I am afraid that the lesson learned is that we do not dedicate enough of our time to be closer to those that matter.
My most heartfelt wishes to you all.
Jay Kembhavi
July 14, 2012
I only just found out my dear friend and business associate Ron is no longer with us. What a shock it was to find this out today. I first met Ron when he came to Edmonton in Canada to lead a project. I was his counterpart on the client side and it was my first project. What a pleasure it was to work with him. We worked hard, fought hard for what we believed and through that forged a friendship that endured even though we hardly met each other over the years. I remember his warmth and hospitality on my visits to Boston (and his ability to park his car in impossibly tiny spaces!), his integrity, his passion for his work and his ability to forge friendships through business relationships. Alas, I've never had the pleasure of meeting his family and telling them in person, how sorry I am that Ron is not with us. Although I just heard the sad news, I hope his family reads this and takes comfort that all of us up here in Edmonton who worked with him, are saddened by his passing. A real gentleman and a good friend - that's what he was for me (us).
October 6, 2011
My deepest sympathy to the Omstead family. I remember Ron so well from Geneva. His beautiful smile and kindness will remain in our hearts. My thoughts and prayers are will you. God Bless. Jill harding Delray Beach, Fl
October 4, 2011
Dear Debra, Girls and the Olmstead Family,
It is with very heavy hearts that we write this note. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you as you begin this journey of grief for the one you love and who is loved by so many.
Debra and Girls, please take comfort in knowing how happy you made Ronnie.
We are so glad that we had an opportunity to meet you and the girls during one of your visits to Geneva. Ronnie was so proud to introduce each of you. During that visit we shared tears and laughter. (Please remember, it was such an honor for us to be able to serve your family during that particular time of need.)
Ronnie has been our friend for 50 years. He came from humble beginnings (as many of us did) and worked hard to accomplish much in his short life time. His success never changed him...always a friend to one and all.
Ronnie, while you are no longer on this earthly plain, we know you are only a heart beat away. We hope your journey over to the other side was one of peace and that you will be able to continue your work there.
Ronnie, keep watch over us all until we meet again.
With much love,
Nancy Coates-Palmisano (GHS Class of '70)
Joseph Palmisano (DHS Class of '69)
Laurie Malcolm Tillinghast
October 3, 2011
Debbie and the entire Olmstead family-
I met Ronnie the first day of orientation at HWS and his smile was infectious to all who knew him. He was, indeed, a down-to-earth, deeply caring person. Over the years, he struggled early on, and then, achieved much and was clearly happiest with his family and friends. I was so happy to see his real happiness and pride when he brought Debbie and the girls to the 25th reunion. It is so true "the good die young". He will be sorely missed by the Hobart and William Smith community and all of his 1974 classmates.
Rob and Kathy Bryan
October 2, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ron's family. Rob and Kathy Bryan
October 2, 2011
My deepest sympathy to the Olmstead Family. I will never forget that beautiful smile and laugh. Ron was just the nicest guy and we will all miss him. Kathy Doran, Lake Worth, FL. GHS '70
October 1, 2011
Ron was such a nice guy. Thanks for the Vineyard memories and the great house parties, it seems like yesterday. Lisa, Will and Winifred
David Feligno
October 1, 2011
To the family,I am so sorry. He was a great friend and all around guy. He made our days in High school an adventure. He will be missed. God Bless
Ruth Leo
October 1, 2011
I am deeply saddened to hear of Ronnie's passing -(We here in Geneva, NY always called him Ronnie�). He was a special guy who meant a lot to our family - he practically lived at our house as he was my brother John's best friend and was best man in his wedding. The years have distanced us but Ronnie will always have a special place in our hearts. The last time I saw him was several years ago when he stopped by to visit my dad here in Geneva. Same old Ronnie - down to earth and not to mention handsome as ever! He will be missed!! My thoughts and prayers are with the Olmstead family.
Kenneth Parker
September 30, 2011
My deepest condolences to Ron's family on their loss. Ron was my business partner many times during my career as a CIO but most of all, he was my friend. He will be missed.
Ann Fenner- Casey
September 30, 2011
Ron, I was only a little girl when you were part of our lives.... I will never forget that smile. You were always so thoughtful of others - I know you had a wonderful life because you were the person that people were drawn to. My heart goes out to your wife, daughters and other family... I hope the wonderful memories they have of you help to carry then through this difficult time. I know you are with the Lord and watching over those you love. I will always remember you.
Scott Parrott
September 29, 2011
I was recently shocked and extremely saddened to hear of Ron's passing. I only knew Ron for a few years, which happened to be a few of the most challenging years of my life. Although I barely knew Ron at the time, his overwhelming generosity helped me through. He was one of the most amazing and gracious people that I have ever met in my lifetime, and I would find myself thinking and wondering about him from time to time. It makes me very sad to know he's gone, but know there is a better place for him for now. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family!
David Spaulding
September 29, 2011
I was saddened to learn of Ron's passing. Our industry will miss his contributions, but his family is at a greater loss, no doubt. My heartfelt sympathies to his family and friends.
Kat Caruso
September 28, 2011
my deepest sympathy to Ron's family . Ron was one of a kind
September 28, 2011
Dear Debbie and family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. I was saddened to hear about Ron's passing. Ron was a great business partner and friend and he was a special person. I'm glad he was part of my life. Our deepest sympathies to you in your loss. Wayne and Judi Terry
Marianne Clark
September 28, 2011
My sincere condolences to Debra, Regan, Avery and Trinity and the entire family. I was so saddened to hear of Ronnie's passing. What a loss! I always have thought so highly of my cousin, Ronnie. And I was so lucky to spend time with him growing up and later in life a couple times in Florida within the last few years. He was truly one of the most loving, caring and thoughtful individuals I've ever known. He was so highly motivated in his work and earned the success he had with his company. He was such a generous individual.... always caring about others. I will never forget that he took the time to make my Mom & Dad's funeral in NY to show support for our family. He's one of the "good" ones" who will always have a place in my heart. Debra and the girls were his "world" and he's so lucky to have enjoyed his time with them. Although it was way too short. I will always hold on to the precious memories of him. Love and prayers are sent to the entire family during this difficult time.
Marianne & Bruce Clark
Kathy Frey
September 28, 2011
I extend my deepest sympathies to the Olmstead family. Ron was a remarkable man with a great gift for caring, giving, and sharing. He will truly be missed.
Margaret Wasnak
September 28, 2011
The Wasnak-Hong family sends our deepest condolences to the Olmstead family. Ron was a mentor, friend, and colleague and we will miss him terribly.
mark bobseine
September 28, 2011
Ron and I both founded competing consulting firms so I knew him primarily as a business competitor.
Ron was always decent and honest. We had many open and genuine conversations and it was always a pleasure to see Ron, to talk with him and to try and figure out how we could work together. The investment business has lost an important contributor, but his family, friends and colleagues have an incredibly decent man.
Rich Robinson
September 28, 2011
My deepest sympathies to the Olmstead family, and all of those Ron touched. I knew Ron first through my father, but had the good fortune of running into him many times through the industry. He was always there to help when needed, and was an honest and good man. His energy and personality will be missed.
Bob Wilson
September 28, 2011
To the Olmstead family I would like to extend my heartfelt sympathy and condolences. I owe a great deal to Ron. He was a mentor and a good friend. Ron will be missed.
David Weden
September 28, 2011
The Wedens of Dover send their deepest sympathies to Debbie and family. Ron was an extraordinary person, solid friend, and talented entrepreneur. I feel blessed to have known Ron for the last six years, and will value those memories forever.
David Goodman
September 28, 2011
I was saddened to hear of Ron's passing. My deeply felt condolences to the family. Ron will be missed.
Jenny Turner
September 27, 2011
Dear Debbie and family, On behalf of the extended Boenker family we offer our deepest condolences to you and your beautiful daughters. May they always remember what a wonderful father they had and how much he did for so many in his short life span. The loss of a husband, father, and grandfather within 2 short months is just too much to comprehend, but the Lord, your Faith, Family and Friends are there to sustain you all. Sincerely, Jenny and Joe Turner
Martha Slocum
September 27, 2011
Debbie, Regan, Avery, and Trinity- I remember Ron coming to so many of the girl's events at school always with a huge smile and warm hug. His positive attitude was infectious and a joy to experience. Our family sends you our heartfelt sympathies.
September 27, 2011
To the Olmstead family I want to extend my heartfelt sympathy. I was fortunate to have Ron as a close friend starting in the early years through high school and into the later years whenever we had the pleasure of his return visits to Geneva. Ron always had such a caring way about him, it was easy to count him as one of those special people in your life - one you never forget. His kindness, smile, and humor are memories to cherish.
Thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Janet LaRocca
Pam Brown
September 27, 2011
My heartfelt condolences to all who knew and loved such a wonderful man. I worked for Olmstead Associates many years ago and will always remember Ron's heartwarming smile, optimism and integrity. We are so fortunate to have known him. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Peace,
September 27, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with Ron’s family and friends as they participate in the Massachusetts funeral tomorrow. Many of us would like to attend the service in Geneva next Monday. When there are more details known, would it be possible for someone to convey them in this forum? Thanks very much.
Tom Secaur
September 27, 2011
My deepest condolences to the Olmstead family. I've known Ron through the industry for several years, and haven't met a nicer, more honest and straightforward gentleman. He will be missed.
September 27, 2011
Debbie, Regan, Avery and Trinity,
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Giordano Family
Mike and Laura Null
September 26, 2011
Debbie are thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Natasha Arntsen
September 26, 2011
My deepest sympathy to Debbie and the kids and all of Ron's family and friends. I have only known Ron over the last two years thru a partnership with his firm. He was truly an amazing person. He loved his family, was charismatic, funny, ethical, was always positive, and a very genuine person. He will be deeply missed.
Robyn Beugger
September 26, 2011
My deepest sympathies go out to Ron's family and friends. I'm so sorry to hear this sad news. I feel very honored to have known and worked with him and will always remember his smiling face.
Mike Draeger
September 26, 2011
Ron was a more than a friend and colleague, and my sympathies go out to his family and fellow consultants.
marty olmstead
September 26, 2011
to debbie and the girls, my wife anne and I would like to send our deepest sympathy to you all. I have never met someone as kind and positive as Ron. Marty and anne olmstead, penn yan ny
Len Alcorn
September 26, 2011
My condolences to the Olmstead family. Ron was a special person, with a permanent smile. I will miss him.
David Torres
September 26, 2011
To the Olmstead Family: Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. Ron helped me start in consulting in the early 1990's and has remained in touch over the years. Ron's optimism and kindness will be missed, and this legacy endures in the hearts of all who knew him.
Tony Painter
September 26, 2011
I knew Ron as a business partner and we did a little business together. It was always good knowing he was there. He is the only person I trusted to have a consulting to consulting firm relationship with. I told him that often over the years. Principally because he was a man of his word, high integrity and a genuine gentle spirit. Our prayers and deepest condolences for his family and friends. Tony Painter
Leo Dinan
September 26, 2011
To the entire Olmstead Family ,
Carol and I want to express our sincere sympathy and want yoou to know that Ron is in our thoughts and prayers. I talked to Ron about a month ago and it was so good to reminise about GHS,Hobart ,and Cornell.It is rare that two friends can say they went through HS ,college and Grad scholl together .He ws a trulty special guy who was a friend to all . May he rest in God's eternal graces.
Family Kupski Kupski
September 26, 2011
Fomos felizes de contatar tao amavel familia, com um pai tao devotado e um chefe generoso com todos que tiveram o privilegio de conviver com ele.Nossos coracoes e preces estarao sempre com sua familia Wallace, Rosangela, Andrea e Claudia Kupski. (Curitiba/ PR/ Brazil).
Bob Cole
September 26, 2011
Debbie and family - My thoughts and prayers are with all of you in this difficult time. I will miss him as he was both a mentor and a friend for many, many years. He gave me my start in consulting, provided guidance and advice and kept in touch over all these years. May the grace of God be with all of you.
Steve Cocola
September 26, 2011
My deepest sympathy to Ron's family.I have so many great memories of our friendship. I feel very fortunate to have known Ron. We will all miss him.
Teresa Wirrick
September 26, 2011
Debbie and Girls,
My heart is breaking for you and the girls. Ron was such a wonderful man and we will miss him. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Much love - Aaron, Teresa and Aidan Wirrick
Robert Ingeno
September 26, 2011
Ron was one of those men who made a wonderful mark on the world and helped to shape many peoples lives with his knowledge and kind spirit. Depest condolences to his Family & friends... B Ingeno
Adam Olmstead
September 26, 2011
Uncle Ronnie,
Your kindness, humor, and good nature have touched many in this world. To those of us lucky enough to have known you, whether for a moment or a lifetime, we hold a piece of you that has made us better people. I ask everyone to pay forward Ron's good will!
Mary Brainard
September 26, 2011
As a classmate and friend from the 60's his joy for life then and every time we met at reunions was inspiring. We enjoyed his company last year, especially at our wine tour and he once again was the Ron we remembered as class president.
His memory will help you get through these days ahead but he will be missed by all who knew him. You have my deepest sympathy. Mary Brainard and class of 70 GHS.
September 26, 2011
My thoughts and prayers go out to Debbie and the kids, and all of Ron's family and friends. The world has lost a truly rare human being, and he will be sorely missed. Much love and positive energy to all who are affected by Ron's loss as I am. Peace.
Charlie Leona Taine
September 26, 2011
"Our deepest sympathy to Debbie, Regan, Avery , Trinity and all Ron's family and friends. Ron was generous and thoughful with a special gift to make all he met feel special. To us he was family, and although we will miss him greatly, he will live on in our hearts and thinking of him will always lift our spirits."
Walt Steesy
September 25, 2011
We share the loss of Ron as a member of our greater Olmstead family.
Genealogist, Olmste(a)d Family Association
September 25, 2011
My deepest condolences to Ron’s family. Those of us who knew Ron in his youth share an affection and appreciation for his bright mind, warm humor and soft heart. His life was a success in so many ways-measured perhaps most importantly by the love and respect we all had for him. My family and I feel very fortunate to have known Ronny. The news of his passing is just so sad. May you take some comfort in knowing how much he left the world better than he found it.
With kindest regards,
Alison TenBruggencate
Susan Dunbar
September 25, 2011
Dear Debbie, Trinity, Avery and Regan -
I am still in shock. My time at Olmstead Associates was a very special part of my life and some wonderful things happened as a result of that, most importantly a great friendship.
His spirit will be here always; my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Chris Holland
September 25, 2011
I worked with Ron many years ago at a computer software firm. He was a helpful co-worker with his gentle manner and ever present smile. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Todd Loeb
September 25, 2011
Debbie & Girls,
We are heartbroken to hear of your loss. Our lives today would not be the same if he had not been part of it. He was truly one of a kind and we will cherish the early times and never forget his smile. May the warmth we all received from him be shown back to you always.
Our love and thoughts,
Todd, Marta, Max & Oscar Loeb
September 25, 2011
What a shock. It is with deep sadness and heartfelt compassion to all who knew and loved Ron that I write this, especially to his family, his wife and children. My deepest sympathies go out to you. Anna Steinkraus, Geneva High Classmate, Class of 1970.
Karen Maines
September 25, 2011
Dear Debbie, Regan, Avery and Trinity: Our hearts are broken for you and your family. We respect and love Ron so very much. He was an inspiration to all who knew him. He was so much more than a boss to Stephen, he was a best friend. We will forever hold onto and cherish the fun happy times we shared together outside of the office. Please know we are here for you and the girls--always. We will be there on Wednesday. With love, prayers and friendship. Always, Karen M.
Judy Gunn
September 25, 2011
Dear Debbie,
Nothing ever prepares you for the loss of people you love. Ron was such a wonderful man--at home with everyone at every station in life. His deep love for you and the girls was so evident to all of us. Your strong faith will help you through this summer of sadness.
Love , Aunt Judy and Bill Gunn,
Michele,Bob,Emily,Melissa, and Jule Washek
September 25, 2011
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Heidi Gilmore
September 25, 2011
Dear Debbie, Regan, Avery, and Trinity,
Our hearts go out to you all. Our deepest sympathies to you, in the loss of your husband and father. As part of the DCD community, we all grieve with you.
Kind Regards,
Jack, Heidi, and Will Gilmore
Sandra Healey
September 25, 2011
Dear Debbie and girls,
My most sincere condolences to you all. Always remember that we shall all meet our loved ones again. Sorry I can't make the memorial but I am working.
Kindest regards,
Sandra Healey
St Lukes Church Member
September 24, 2011
My Friend and Mentor, you left this place better for having been here. May the road rise to meet you, May the wind be always at your back, May the sun shine warm upon your face, May the rains fall soft upon your fields, And, until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.
LTR
September 24, 2011
Debbie, our hearts break for you and the girls. We loved and respected Ron so much. We hope that he continues to inspire your lives. We wish we could be there for the celebration of his life. And may it be a celebration, with a party that he so loved to be a part of. We are all blessed to have had the privilege to be called his friend. May you find peace.
Bob Siefert and Maureen Shea
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