Ronald Stephen Kolessar

Ronald Stephen Kolessar, known affectionately as Ron, passed away peacefully surrounded by the warmth of his family's love on December 16, 2025, at the age of 82 in Ellicott City, Maryland. Ron was a beacon of wisdom and caring in the lives of all who knew him. Born on February 11, 1943, in Elizabeth, New Jersey to the late Andrew Kolessar and Mary Kolessar (Ciuchta).

Ron shared a life of love and devotion with his wife of 56 years, Deborah Kolessar (Christensen). Together, they raised a beautiful family that included their late daughter Andrea, son Nathan and daughter-in-law Heather (Stodart). Ron's legacy continues through the joy of his grandsons, Andrew, Lucas, and Ryan Kolessar, whose achievements and milestones brought him immense pride.

A devout Christian, Ron's faith guided him throughout his life and was reflected in the way he lived-serving others, embodying kindness, and always offering a helping hand. He graduated from Newark College of Engineering with a degree in Electrical Engineering. His education laid the foundation for a remarkable career that spanned over four decades. Ron's expertise and commitment were instrumental at Control Data Systems, ETA in Minnesota and at Arbitron in Maryland where he moved in 1989. He concluded his professional journey as Vice President of Technology. His crowning achievement was his role in designing the Portable People Meter, revolutionizing the measurement of radio and TV ratings.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Ron played volleyball and softball with his wife and friends in Minnesota. When Ron's playing days were over he relished the opportunity to travel and explore the world with his wife. With annual trips to Europe and even more frequent trips throughout the US. Ron found joy in playing card and dice games with his friends, and he was a frequent and enthusiastic spectator at his grandsons' sporting events.

Ron will be remembered as a pillar of wisdom-a man who approached every challenge with a measured and thoughtful perspective. His selfless nature was evident in the way he put the needs of others before his own, always willing to lend an ear before offering advice. To know Ron was to know a man who lived his values, who loved his family deeply, and who made a difference in the lives of those around him.

As we mourn the loss of Ronald Stephen Kolessar, we also celebrate a life well-lived-a life that exemplified the virtues of faith and love. Though he has left this earthly realm, his spirit remains alive in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have felt his influence. Ron's memory will be treasured, his lessons cherished, and his presence sorely missed. We take comfort in the assurance that he rests now in the eternal peace of Christ, his Savior. A memorial Service will be held at New Hope Lutheran Church, 8575 Guilford Rd, Columbia, MD 21046 on Sunday, Dec 21st at 4pm with fellowship following.