Ronald Lee "Ron" Gist

Ronald Lee "Ron" Gist, age 88, of Edison, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, March 28, 2026, following a recent battle with cancer.

On January 9, 1938, Ron was born in Marion, Ohio, the oldest of four children of the late Virgil Eugene Gist and Doris May (Maynard) Gist Carver. He grew up in Caledonia and graduated from Caledonia High School in the class of 1956, where he was a three sport athlete.

A lifelong car salesman, Ron owned and operated Ron Gist RV and Auto Sales for over 30 years. After selling his dealership, he continued working by delivering parts for NAPA Auto Parts in Mount Gilead.

Back in the early 1970s, Ron sold a Fiat to Carol Sue Hammon, and from there, the rest is history. Shortly thereafter, Ron and Carol were united in marriage on October 26, 1974, at the Trinity Baptist Church in Marion. They shared 51 years of marriage and raised two sons: Anthony and Ryan Gist.

Ron was a member of the Oliver Lodge 447 F&AM in Caledonia, and he was formerly a member of the Canaan and Caledonia United Methodist Churches.

With a love for the outdoors, Ron was an avid hunter for most of his life. He especially looked forward to his annual hunting adventures with his good friend, Rodney Clinger, often picking an RV off of the lot to take on those hunting adventures. He also was an avid gun collector who loved to test out his new guns. In his younger years, Ron enjoyed playing golf.

Ron was a very proud father and grandfather, and he cherished watching his son and grandson play football. He was also a devoted Ohio State Buckeye fan.

Gifted with the ability to strike up a conversation with anyone, Ron loved visiting with friends and sharing his favorite stories. Though he could sometimes seem gruff on the outside, those who knew him best knew he was a softie on the inside who would do anything for his family and friends. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his loyalty, and his love for his family.

Ron will be missed by his wife, Carol Gist of Edison; his son, Anthony "Tony" (Melody) Gist of York, PA; two grandchildren, Ava and Asher Gist; his stepmother, Twila McClaren Gist; his brother, Michael (Kathy) Gist of Leesburg, Florida; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Ron was preceded in death by his son, Ryan Matthew Gist; two infant daughters; his stepfather, Ernie Carver; and two siblings, Lanny Gist and Mary Ann Ketchmark.

His family will greet friends from 11 am to 1 pm on Friday, April 3, 2026, Snyder Funeral Homes, Denzer Chapel, 360 E. Center St., Marion. Masonic services will begin at 1 pm and services honoring his life will follow the Masonic services, with Pastor Steve Estep officiating. For those unable to attend his services, you may watch the livestream of the service via the Snyder Funeral Homes, Denzer Chapel, Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/DenzerChapelSFH). Burial will follow in Caledonia Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Marion Naz (https://marionnaz.org/give) or Oliver Lodge 447 F & AM, 116 ½ S. Marion St., Caledonia, OH 43314.

Snyder Funeral Homes of Marion are honored to serve Ron's family and your condolences may be expressed to them by visiting www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.