Ronald Rovin

Ronald ("Ron") Rovin, beloved husband, father, and Zayde, was born in Chicago on October 31, 1942, and passed away on December 28, 2025, at the age of 83. He was a gifted storyteller who loved to share memories of his family, his travels, and his work, and he leaves behind a legacy of connection, laughter, and care.

Ron was a proud graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Northwestern University, and the Gestalt Institute, reflecting his lifelong commitment to learning and to understanding people. His career in education began as a high school English teacher and then as a guidance counselor, before he found his calling as a School Psychologist. He spent the majority of his career at Maine East High School, where he formed lifelong bonds with both coworkers and students. He was deeply proud of his advocacy for his students and felt especially rewarded when he heard, years later, about the adults they had become and the lives they were leading.

Ron's dedication to education extended beyond the school walls. He was an active leader in the National Education Association, serving as a local president, a local representative at NEA national conferences, and a long-serving member of the NEA Resolutions Committee, where he was honored to help give voice to educators' values and priorities on a national stage. After retiring from his career in schools, Ron embraced new adventures with characteristic enthusiasm. He studied improv comedy at Second City and ImprovOlympic (now known as iO), and delighted in performing standup with his troupe in downtown Chicago and the northwest suburbs, including a recurring show in the speakeasy at the historic Green Door Tavern.

Ron was someone people naturally sought out for life advice and support, particularly around health-related concerns. He listened deeply, offered thoughtful guidance, and approached every conversation with warmth and gentle humor. He was especially proud that his son, Eric, followed in his footsteps and also became a school psychologist, carrying forward his commitment to supporting students and families.

Family time was at the heart of Ron's life. When Eric was growing up, weekends and summers were often spent camping, skiing, and traveling together. Cherished traditions included winter trips to Disney World over the holidays and New Year's, as well as visits to Las Vegas and ski areas near and far. In later years, after his wife Adrienne retired, they enjoyed a long and joyful retirement together, spending much of the year cruising to tropical islands and escaping Midwestern winters in Florida.

Ron also had a lifelong love of dogs and treasured the many canine companions who were part of the family over the years. More recently, he especially adored his grand-dog Jake, a Bernese Mountain Dog, whose presence brought him great joy.

He was preceded in death by his father, Eugene Rovin, who passed away at age 53; his brother, George Rovin; and his mother, Shirley Rovin, who passed in 2007. He remained a devoted son to Shirley throughout her life and was grateful when she moved closer so they could spend more time together. He is survived by his loving wife, Adrienne Rovin; his son, Eric Rovin; his daughter-in-law, Justine Rovin; and his beloved granddaughter, Sabella Rovin, who knew him as her cherished Zayde along with extended family and many dear friends whose lives he touched.

Ron will be remembered for his big heart, his quick wit, and the countless ways he made the people around him feel seen, supported, and loved.

Service Wednesday, December 31, 2025, 10:00 a.m. CT at The Chapel, 195 N. Buffalo Grove Rd., Buffalo Grove (1 Block N. of Lake Cook Rd.). Ron's service will be livestreamed on his webpage at www.goldmanfuneralgroup.com. Interment Shalom Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to the Beth Tikvah Congregation, 300 Hillcrest Blvd., Hoffman Estates, IL 60169, www.beth-tikvah.org. Info: The Goldman Funeral Group (847) 478-1600.