Ronald "Ron" Cushman

SALEM - Ronald "Ron" Cushman passed away Sunday, September 7, 2025. He was born May 28, 1941, son of Rodney Clayton Cushman and Loretta Marie Stephenson.

He was a lifelong resident of Salem, OH. Ron was a proud U.S. Navy Veteran, member of the Honor Guard, the Salem VFW Post 892, and the Amvets. He had a wonderful 34-year career as a manufacturing engineer at General Motors Lordstown where he retired in 2003. From there, he spent much of his retirement keeping Pabst Blue Ribbon in business and socializing at the VFW. When he wasn't enjoying a cold one, he could most often be found fixing or building something around the house or perfecting his lawn. He was a self-taught woodworker and quite good at it. He also loved technology and was always ordering the newest gadgets to play with.

The most important work Ron ever did was love his family well. He was always calm, always happy, always positive, always ready to help, and his family will remember him fondly that way. Even as his health declined in the end, he never once complained. He loved to laugh, he loved his country, and he really loved his wife, Juanita, who passed away just 14 months ago. Life since she died was very difficult for him. He missed her terribly every single day and the family takes comfort, knowing they are together again.

He leaves behind their two other children: son, Jeff Cushman; daughter, Connie Whinnery. Connie was his youngest child, born on Christmas Day, and she was his full-time caretaker for the last several weeks of his life where he reminded her many times that he always knew she was a real Christmas Angel. Ron was lovingly known as "Poppy" to all his grandchildren and great grandchildren who will all miss him very much. He leaves behind nine grandchildren: Shea Whinnery, Bree Pastore, Alex Whinnery, Kyle Cushman, Ian Cushman, Brian Cushman, Brice Cushman, Sidney Davidson, and Cade Cushman. At his passing he had 13 great grandchildren and counting. Ron also leaves behind a brother, Charles Cushman (aka Mouse), who lives in Illinois.

Besides his wife, Juanita, Ron was also preceded in death by his oldest son, Chuck Cushman.

Life is short even when it's long. One thing about Ron Cushman is he sure loved his life. The simple things brought him the most joy. Everyone who knew him knew that they could count on him for a good time but as much as no one wants it to be true, his time here has run out. What a blessing to live such a long life and to be surrounded by good friends and a family who love you to the very last breath and beyond. Until we meet again.

Per Ron's wishes, there will be no services.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To view Ron's obituary or send condolences, visit www.starkmemorial.com.