Ronald Christopher Catalano

Ronald "Ron" C. Catalano, 78, of Clearwater, FL passed away suddenly on Sunday, December 8, 2024.
Born May 31, 1946, in Chicago to Carmen and Marie Montagno Catalano, Ron grew up in Cicero, IL, where he perfected the art of BS-ing and rule-bending just enough to avoid getting caught.
Ron kicked off his career in law enforcement as a Cicero Auxiliary Police Officer, but not before delivering almonds & cashews (and probably a few laughs) as a driver for John B. Sanfilippo & Son. He eventually traded nuts for badges, heading to the police academy and then dedicating over 45 years to the Cook County Sheriff's Department. It's safe to say he knew a thing or two about "law and order".
As a father to Rocco, Rose, and Gina Catalano, Ron wasn't exactly your textbook dad, but he sure kept things entertaining. A charming father-in-law to Tammy and a proud "Grampy" to Jude, Jeff, Rocco, Jr., Vinny, Joey, and Dominic; Ron was known for his legendary storytelling, dry humor, and generous nature.
Ron was a fond uncle of Philip (Judy) Rizzo and Donna (John) Maentanis; he enjoyed spending time in Texas with his cousins Bob and JoAnn Catalano, and in Florida with cousin Jackie Ballard, where they likely shared plenty of laughs, food, and good stories.
Ron was preceded in death by his sister Anita (Alphonse "Al") Rizzo, who likely greeted him at the gates with a raised eyebrow and a good-natured "What took you so long?"
A celebration of Ron's life will be held on January 10, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at his favorite son's funeral home, Ryan-Parke, 120 South Northwest Highway, Park Ridge, IL.
The funeral mass and entombment will be private, as Ron wouldn't have wanted a big fuss (unless it involved good food and lemon cookies). He will be laid to rest in Queen of Heaven Mausoleum, Hillside, where he's undoubtedly charming the angels, cracking jokes, and figuring out how to cut in line at the pearly gates.
Funeral information ryan-parke.com or call (847) 823-1171
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