Ronald "Jon" Ferra

Ronald "Jon" Ferra, age 76, of Erie passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 13, 2024, at his residence. Born in Punxsutawney, PA he was a son of the late Donald and Gladys (Bailey) Ferra.
Jon was a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps and held various jobs until becoming permanently disabled having suffered from congestive heart failure and lung disease for over thirty years. He defied all odds, when he was given just six months to live in 1995, which we attribute to his strong will to live and unbreakable spirit.
One of Jon's greatest qualities was his natural ability to make friends. He could talk to anyone, and no one stayed a stranger for long.
He had the best laugh, was slow to judge and the first to forgive.
"Judge not, lest ye be judged." Matthew 7:1
He was also an animal lover, motorcycle enthusiast, loyal watcher of Judge Judy and avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Colleen and Donna Mae; two brothers, Rich and Dan and his beloved dogs, Lucy and Ricky.
Survivors include his wife of 27 years, Karen Flagella; his children, Bobby Ferra, Sam Chiarelli (Kristina), Jennifer Kinter (Dave), Rachel Gibbs (Jason), Ellie Pfister (Chris) and Angela Chiarelli; eight grandchildren, Lucas, Nick, Emma, Sergio, Marco, Mariah, Elena and Zacary; one brother, Ralph Courtney; his beloved dog, Duncan and many friends, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Friends are invited to call on Saturday from 11a.m. until the time of a service at 1:30 p.m. at Brugger Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1595 West 38th St. at Greengarden Blvd. Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Veteran's Miracle Center, where he volunteered for many years, 1573 West 39th St., Erie, PA 16509. Condolences may be expressed at www.bruggerfuneralhomes.com