Ronald E. Uschold

Ronald Uschold

Ronald E. Uschold, 83, of West Chester, PA, passed away peacefully on March 27, after a valiant journey through Parkinson’s Disease Dementia, which he navigated with his trademark humility and stoicism.

Ron was born on June 13, 1942, in Buffalo, NY, the only child of Edna Schroeder and Earl A. Uschold. He graduated from Kenmore High School in 1960, where he was an accomplished student and butterfly swimmer. Ron continued to swim at State University of New York at Buffalo, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in 1964, and his Doctorate of Philosophy in Chemistry in 1968, with a post doctorate at University of California Irvine.

Pivoting from what he thought would be a career as a professor, Ron accepted a position with DuPont in 1968 as a research scientist, specializing in fluoropolymers. For over 50 years, Ron happily reported to his lab at the Experimental Station, in Wilmington, DE, where his development of elastomeric coatings resulted in over 20 patents, dozens of journal articles, and lectures delivered globally. His inventions can be found lining airplane cabins, flat screen televisions, and solar panels.

His passion for chemistry was matched only by his carpentry skills and his twilight career as a PADI scuba instructor, during which he certified countless divers (including his children), fed sharks, and explored shipwrecks worldwide—his favorite being Truk Lagoon.

Ron was predeceased two months prior by his beloved wife Kathie Hayes Uschold, whom he married on June 19, 1965, and was unfailingly devoted to for 60 adventurous years. Ron is survived by and will live on through their three children, who will affirm that he is the closest one could come to being a perfect father.

Through Ron, his son, Mark Uschold, learned the magic of unconditional love, the importance of remaining accountable to oneself and one’s commitments, and that moments of bewilderment and doubt are expected in life, but one must remain focused and resolute.

Ron’s values are reflected in his daughter, Lori Mingione, in the care she takes of her home, a strong work ethic, perseverance in the face of challenges, and devotion to her children, Ashley and Matthew Silcox.

Glimpses of Ron will be caught anytime his daughter, Karen Meadows (Charles), flashes her dry humor and sneaky streak, savors the first spring peas, or excitedly walks ahead of her family when exploring a new place.

All will gratefully be reminded of Ron through her son Hayden’s love of the water, chemistry, history, and hot sauce, but especially through his bright smile and pure, true heart.

Several years ago, Ron was asked what would be the one thing he would want family and friends to remember most about him. He wrote, “I hope they remember me as a friend and confidant. Someone to trust and depend on. Someone you can tell troubles to.” We will, Dad. We will.

A private farewell was held for Ron. Those wishing to honor his memory can make donations to The Parkinson Council of Philadelphia. Ron was also a routine platelet donor to American Red Cross until his disease prevented it. Please consider the life-giving act of donating blood as a tribute to this incomparable man.