Ronald L. Rife

Ron Lee Rife, of Pemberville, Ohio, passed away on November 12, 2025, at ProMedica Toledo Hospital. He was born on March 25, 1947, in Fremont, Ohio, to Norman Lewis and Florence Lillian (Davis) Rife. Ron proudly served his country in the United States Army. In 1978, he married Kathleen Jo Bach at Grace Lutheran Church in Luckey, Ohio. Together, Ron and Kathy raised four children and shared 47 years of marriage.
Ron worked for more than 20 years as a dedicated truck driver for C&G Transportation. He was a member of the Pemberville American Legion and later the Bradner American Legion. Ron especially loved being surrounded by his family. Some of his happiest moments were spent with his children and grandchildren-whether it was gathering for birthdays, cheering on the Browns or Buckeyes together, or celebrating the traditions of the holiday season. His family was truly the center of his world.
Ron also enjoyed the simple pleasures that brought people together. He loved pulling the camper with Kathy to Florida during the winter months and taking it on local trips in the summer to spend time with family and friends. At home, Ron found joy in his garden-especially at the end of the gardening season when he would can the harvest with Kathy or other family members, proud of the fruits of their labor and the time spent doing it together. Ron also loved riding motorcycles, and he especially enjoyed getting out on the road with his Harley-Davidson.
Always a proud Veteran, Ron experienced a profoundly meaningful final journey when he participated in the Flag City Honor Flight to Washington, D.C.-an honor he held close to his heart and often spoke of with gratitude.
Ron is survived by his wife, Kathy; his children: Jennifer Gutierrez of Bowling Green, Rob (Nadia) Stephenson of Luckey, Michelle (Jason) Holliday of Bowling Green, and Ron (Amy) Rife of Perrysburg; his grandchildren: Anthony, Alex, Brayden, Mia, Jonah, Aubree, and Austin; and his great-granddaughters: Mazey and Kinsley. He is also survived by his niece, nephews, and many close friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Shirley Davis.
Family and friends will be received from 4–7 p.m. on Monday, November 17, 2025, at Marsh & Marsteller Funeral Home, 4094 State Route 105, Pemberville. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at the funeral home, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. Pastor Leroy Sholey will officiate. Burial will follow at Troy Township Cemetery in Luckey, Ohio.
A bereavement luncheon will be held at the Bradner American Legion, Albert Bowe Post 338, located at 209 W. Crocker St. in Bradner, immediately following the cemetery service.
The family welcomes visitors to dress comfortably or in casual attire, as Ron always appreciated a relaxed gathering.
Memorial contributions may be made to Flag City Honor Flight. Those wishing to share a memory or offer words of encouragement may do so at www.marshfuneralhomes.com