Ronald J. "Ron" Cocolin

Ronald "Ron" J. Cocolin, age 83, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2025, in Haverhill, Massachusetts, shortly after being diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer. Born on October 19, 1941, in Radford, Virginia, Ron was the beloved son of Helen E. and Gus Cocolin. He grew up with a strong sense of duty and dedication that would define his life both personally and professionally. In 1965, Ron was drafted into the United States Army and served honorably during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of E4. His service reflected his quiet strength and unwavering commitment to doing what was right-qualities that remained with him throughout his life. After completing his military service, Ron began a long and accomplished career in the hardware retail industry. For 33 years, he worked with NHD Hardware stores, where he played a vital role in managing new store openings across the country-including locations in Maryland, Texas, Louisiana, Illinois, Nebraska, Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire. His leadership and work ethic left a lasting impression on colleagues and customers alike. After NHD closed its doors, Ron continued to share his expertise at Rocky's Ace Hardware- he truly embodied the spirit of the "helpful hardware man"-and later at Harbor Freight. Even after retiring in 2016, Ron's dedication to serving others didn't wane. He earned his CDL license and became a cherished elementary school bus driver for First Student, Inc. in Plaistow, New Hampshire. Driving Bus #123 became more than just a job- it was a source of joy that allowed him to form meaningful connections with the children he transported and forge bonds with fellow drivers who came to admire his steady presence. A lifelong enthusiast of American Flyer trains-a passion that began with a treasured childhood gift from his grandmother. Ron built an extraordinary collection over the years. Each holiday season brought added delight as he crafted displays (with Grammy's help) for his grandchildren to enjoy. These moments reflected his love for trains and created treasured memories that will live on in the hearts of those who shared them. Ron is lovingly remembered by his wife Jacqueline "Jackie" M. Cocolin; daughter Melynda S. Pavao and her wife Krystyna of Fairhaven, MA; brother Gabriel G. Cocolin and his wife Mildred of Baltimore, MD; five grandchildren Burgandie J.J.W. Coy, Samuel T. Berthiaume, Margaux I. (Berthiaume) Pham, Jack E. Pavao, Emerson J. Pavao; and one great-grandchild Sawyer E. Berthiaume. Ron was predeceased by his parents Gus and Helen E. (Takides) Cocolin; his son Michael J. Walter (Melynda's twin brother); and many other loved ones whose memories he carried with him always. Those who knew Ron remember him as a quiet yet warm presence-gentle and kind with a fun sense of humor rooted in old-school charm. He was a loving husband, dad, son, grandson, uncle "Ronnie", nephew, cousin, brother, father in-law, brother in-law, loyal friend-and above all else-a proud Papa. May Ronald James Cocolin's memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate to know him-a man whose journey through life was marked by dedication to family, country, craft, and community. The Celebration of Life service to honor the life of Ronald J. Cocolin will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, 11:00 a.m. at the American Legion Haverhill, Post 4, 1314 Main Street, Haverhill, Massachusetts 01830. To send a message of condolence to the family or to share a cherished memory, please visit: brooksidechapelfh.com.