Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Heintzelman Funeral Home, Inc. - Schnecksville

4906 Route 309

Schnecksville, Pennsylvania

Romolo Ragnelli Obituary

In Loving Memory of Romolo "Rome" Ragnelli: It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Romolo "Rome" Ragnelli, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and man whose presence lit up every room he entered. Rome passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable charisma. Born on July 4, 1938, in Pittsburgh, PA, Rome lived a life full of purpose and passion. Whether through his work, his friendships, or his family, he had a rare gift - the ability to command attention not through force, but through warmth, authenticity, and a smile that never seemed to fade. Rome was a masterful storyteller. Rome faithfully and honorably served his country in the U.S. Marine Corp in a peacetime era. His professional life was marked by dedication, leadership, and integrity. He worked for TRW as the Eastern Regional Sales manager until his retirement. Rome then went on to work as a financial advisor for a few years before deciding it was time to truly retire. He proudly served as president of his retirement community for 17 years, where residents regularly turned to him for guidance and problem-solving. To know Rome was to feel seen, heard, and appreciated. He had that special ability to make you feel like the most important person in the world, whether through a firm handshake, a heartfelt story, or one of his signature smiles. He believed in the power of connection and lived it every day - not for show, but because it was simply who he was. But above all, Rome was a devoted father. His children were his pride and joy, and he gave them not just love, but his time, his wisdom, and his unwavering support. He taught them to be kind, to stand tall, and to laugh - often and loudly. He is survived by daughters, Vicki L. MacLaughlin of Germansville and Dina J. Howard and her husband, Dave of Allentown; grandchildren, Shayne, Samantha and Ty; sister, Geraldine Ward and her husband, James who will carry his memory in their hearts forever. Rome was predeceased by his wife, Marilyn J. (Andrews) Ragnelli and mother, Florence (McCarthy) Ragnelli. He also leaves behind countless nieces, nephews, friends, colleagues, and community members whose lives were brighter because he was in them. Rome was the kind of man who made the world better just by being in it. His smile, his strength, and his spirit will never be forgotten. A celebration of his life will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Heintzelman Funeral Home, Inc., 4906 Route 309, Schnecksville with the Rev. Dr. David Charles Smith officiating. Family and friends may pay their respects from 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. prior to the service. A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family. Online expressions of sympathy may be recorded at www.heintzelmancares.com. The family asks that you share a story or memory of Rome and carry his light forward in your own life. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his honor to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation. As a veteran of the Marines, it is only fitting that an organization which supports first responders, veterans, and their families benefit. Donations can be made at https://t2t.org. Schnecksville Location

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by WFMZ-TV 69 News on May 20, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Romolo Ragnelli

Not sure what to say?





Linda and Sid German

May 30, 2025

Our deepest condolences and prayers to the entire Ragnelli family during this difficult time.

Charlie Correll

May 25, 2025

What can be said that hasn’t been said already! You guys nailed it!
Rome was an Incredible person all the way through!!

Rome and Marilyn, “Mom” as we all called her, had welcomed a bunch of us into their home and lives as teenagers in the early 80’s.

Their example of what kindness and friendship means has touched me and so many others and lives on forever in anyone who was fortunate enough to have met them.
My deepest sympathy to the entire family and thank you all for the many wonderful memories so many years ago.

Beverly Wohlbach

May 24, 2025

Vicki, Dina, and rest of the Ragnelli family, I offer my condolences. Your obituary described Rome so beautifully. He truly was everything mentioned. My late husband Harry and I were honored to consider him a friend. We lived at Millbrook Chase since 2004 and he was truly like the Mayor of Millbrook Chase! Beverly Wohlbach.

Eileen

May 21, 2025

Rome was one of the kindest men I have ever met. Always cheerful, I don’t think I ever saw him without a smile on his face. He was just an all round great guy. Vicki and Dina I am so very sorry for your loss. God bless and comfort you in this sad time and bring you lots of joy as you look back on all the great times.

Rome around COVID time

Raymond & Linda Finkelstein

May 21, 2025

We know Rome from the time we first moved to Millbrook Chase 18 years ago, as we were first told that if needed to get something done call Rome and everyone did just that. He cared deeply to help keep the community looking good and more than anything he was always helping everyone! Simply he cared about people and was always willing to help any way he could. We served together for years on the Millbrook Board, and I was honored to serve those few years with him. We did not always agree but the most important thing is that it only made our friendship better. We went together for years on Tuesday mornings for breakfast and Rome as expected took control of being the person to collect the money, pay the bill and keep arrangements in order. His stories were endless and fascinating. We sure miss him on our Tuesday morning get together and often laugh and smile remembering him. We texted each over the past few years as he was not able to make those breakfasts and I have saved all those texts and as usual he expressed his care many times over the good and bad. We feel blessed to have been able to be part of his life and deeply thank him for all he did to help us and this community. Lastly, I want to thank Rome for his service to his country. He was a true Marine!
Our deepest heartfelt condolences to all the Ragnelli family and may he rest in peace.

Debbie Verbanick

May 21, 2025

My memory of Rome goes back many years. On Sundays having spaghetti dinners at Grandma Flo's house (Rome's mother). Having her homemade noodles and Lemon Meringue pies Rome would always be smiling and sharing many stories. No matter where you would see Rome he always had a smile and a little conversation with you. To Rome's daughter, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews know that those we love do not go away for they walk beside us everyday. To his sister Gerry whom he loved so very much his memory will be forever cherished and his spirit will live on through the love he shared with you. My deepest sympathy to the Ragnelli family.

Stephen Miller

May 20, 2025

I use to bowl with Rome back about 18-20 years ago as a 18-19 year old on Thursday nights at Bardon! My grandfather would come watch myself and everyone else bowl and they really enjoyed talking when my grandfather wasn’t talking to me. It was like having 2 grandfathers watch ya bowl for a few hours. We had a lot of great conversations over those years. I truly miss those nights as my grandfather passed almost 14 years ago and I unfortunately lost touch with Rome after I no longer could keep bowling. Was fortunate enough however to have my best night of my life during that time and had my only 800 series (822) of my life and could celebrate that with my grandfather, Rome and other fellow bowlers. He was so elated for myself! I’ll never forget the times we had!! Luckily enough I did get to see him a couple of times just a couple years ago when I went back to the league after the itch of wanting to bowl brought me back to Bardon and it was like we never stopped bowling together!! Was always so pleasant, always knew how to make ya feel good about yourself and could make you laugh instantly. My deepest condolences to everyone who knew Rome! May he be at peace!! Keep his memories close to your heart and when you need him he won’t be too far away!!

Grateful

May 20, 2025

Rome,
Thank You for Your service to our country.

God Bless You!
God be with your family!

Sincerely,
A Grateful American

Joseph Hohneck

May 20, 2025

Vicki, Dina, and the Ragnelli family, your dad, granddad, was a very special man. He was always welcoming and friendly to everyone he came in contact with. I remember when the community yard sale would be going on, stopping to talk to him and your mom, always a good time. Please take peace in knowing that he is at peace now, smiling down on your all with your mom again. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.

Mark Andrews

May 20, 2025

We will miss you uncle Rome
Gone from this earth but never from our hearts
Love Mark and bonny andrews

lisa Prutzman

May 20, 2025

I was a cashier at Brookside Deli he came in to get lottery. i would always say Hi Handsome he smiled so big . We would talk a little . The nicest smartest man I ever talked with . He talked about his daughters n grandchildren. Was very Proud of them. . I cant come to the service because I just had a Stem Cell Transplant so i have to quarantine.. He will always be in my thoughts ❤

Diane Meeko

May 20, 2025

Vicki - Praying 4 GOD’s Peace 2 B w/U & Ur Family

Bruce Walters

May 20, 2025

my prayers and condolences to you and your family

Showing 1 - 13 of 13 results

Make a Donation
in Romolo Ragnelli's name

Memorial Events
for Romolo Ragnelli

Jun

14

Service

12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Schnecksville Location

4906 Route 309, Schnecksville, PA 18078

Jun

14

Celebration of Life

1:30 p.m.

Schnecksville Location

4906 Route 309, Schnecksville, PA 18078

Funeral services provided by:

Heintzelman Funeral Home, Inc. - Schnecksville

4906 Route 309, Schnecksville, PA 18078

How to support Romolo's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Romolo Ragnelli's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more