RONALD R. NIXON

1945 - 2018

Ronald R. Nixon, age 73, of Mount Gilead, died Sunday, September 30, 2018, at the Galion Hospital following an extended illness.

On August 8, 1945, Ron was born in Galion, Ohio, the youngest of four children of the late Gaylord and Miriam (Palm) Nixon. He was raised in Mount Gilead, attended Trinity United Methodist Church, and graduated from Mount Gilead High School in the class of 1964. He furthered his education at Bowling Green University, where he earned his bachelor's degree in education with a specialty in industrial arts.

Growing up in Mount Gilead, Ron and all of his friends spent a significant amount of time at the ice cream shop and playing sports around town. Somewhere along the way, he became acquainted with a young lady, Mary Jean Fath, and their friendship grew from there. After a long courtship, Ron and Mary Jean were married on September 4, 1971. Together they shared forty seven years of marriage, lovingly raising one son, RJ.

For over 30 years, Ron dedicated his career to enriching the lives of his students both as a teacher and coach. He taught industrial arts to both high school and middle school students, and coached several sports though primarily football. He worked in Danville, Tecumseh, Fredericktown, Cardington, Galion and Centerburg school systems, until his retirement.

Putting his own education to good use, Ron was proud to build two homes for his family; one for his mother on Willow Lane in Mount Gilead, and one for his wife and son in Candlewood Lake. He also enjoyed tinkering in the garage on his '56 Ford, and rooting on the Ohio State Buckeyes and Cleveland Browns.

In his younger days, one of Ron's friends enlightened him to the joys of water skiing, with his first experiences being on the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. From there, most every summer out of school he spent on the water, both boating and water skiing. Ron truly loved everything about being out on the water. He also was a member of the Candlewood Ski Club.

A great man, Ron was the best husband, father, teacher, coach, mentor and friend you could ask for. He also had the best sense of humor, always keeping you on your toes with his quick wit and ornery personality.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Mary Jean Nixon of Mount Gilead; son, RJ (Samantha) Nixon; one precious granddaughter, Magnolia "Maggie" Nixon; three sisters: Judith Dunn of Sidney, Ohio, Maxine (Jim) Reesman of Medina, Ohio, and Mary Ellen (Marvin) Gillson of Butler, Ohio; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services honoring Ron's life will be observed at 1 pm on Thursday, October 4, 2018, at his graveside in Bryn Zion Cemetery, 5522 County Road 240; Mount Gilead, OH 43338, with their neighbor and former pastor, Robert Taylor officiating. In remembrance of Ron, a luncheon will be held at 2 pm at Trinity United Methodist Church in Mount Gilead. All are welcome to attend.

Memorial contributions may be made to help the OSU Wexner Medical Center continue helping other patients with Parkinson's Disease: https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/ways-to-give/supporting-brain-and-spine-innovations

Snyder Funeral Homes of Mount Gilead are honored to serve Ron's family and your favorite memories and condolences may be expressed to them via www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.