Ronald Myron Rodehorst

1947 - 2024

BURLINGTON, Mass. - Ronald Myron Rodehorst passed away on June 21, 2024, at the age of 77, in Burlington, MA. Born on May 14, 1947, Ron pursued a rich life filled with intellectual and outdoor passions.

He earned a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Colorado Boulder, which led him to a career as a research chemist at Celanese Corporation from 1976 to 1989. He later shared his knowledge as a chemistry and physics teacher at Rocky Hill School between 1990 and 1994, before becoming a science instructor at the Naval Education and Training Center in Newport RI, where he served until 2009.

Beyond his professional life, Ron was deeply involved in his local church, Central Baptist Church of Westerly, serving in multiple roles such as church Clerk, Trustee, sound system operator, and Property chair. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he was a beloved member of his church community.

Ron was also a talented craftsman and an avid outdoorsman. He built his own house, complete with a greenhouse, crafted a sailing dinghy, an oak dining room set, and designed an indestructible mailbox. He loved spending a day sailing or fly fishing, and being outside gardening, among other hobbies.
He is survived by his wife, Ellen K. Rodehorst; sons Robert A. Rodehorst and Michael J. Rodehorst; daughter-in-law, Kristen Rodehorst; three granddaughters; and sister, Donna Barber. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Myron G. and Rella A. (Laing) Rodehorst.

A service to celebrate Ron's life will be held on July 20, 2024, at 11:00 am at Central Baptist Church, 16 Elm Street, Westerly, RI. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Central Baptist Church of Westerly, honoring Ron's commitment to his faith and community.