Ronald Lee Gaynor, 72, of Dover, IN, born on August 23, 1951, bid farewell to this world on March
4, 2024, leaving behind a legacy etched in the hearts of many. You could call him a “man of the
people” or the unofficial “historian of Dover.” Maybe to you he was “my mower guy,” “the chicken
fryer,” “a Veteran,” or “a faithful man.” But to those who loved him most, he was “my husband,” “our
Dad,” “our Grandpa,” and “our brother.” Regardless of what you called him, Ron was honored to
answer to any of these… just don’t call him late to dinner!
It was this witty approach to life – full of snappy comebacks and goofy grins – that his wife, Donna
(Bihr), fell in love with over 47 years ago, and they married on May 22, 1976 at St. John the Baptist
Catholic Church in Harrison, OH. Donna wasn’t the only one to benefit from his distinct sayings, as
he was always punctuating conversations with his trademarks such as “Yello!”, “I reckon’”, and
“Yeah, well… it’s like I said…”.
Ron never knew a stranger; his warm charisma even charmed the cows on the 100-year-old
Gaynor family farm where he enjoyed a great deal of time with his late parents, Ruth (Bulach) and
Bernie Gaynor, as well as his siblings, Denny (Connie), Jake (Jackie), Mary Jane Stuerenberg, John
(Katie).
His dedication to the Army was unwavering, evidenced by his honorable service, participation in
the 2023 Tri-State Honor Flight, Memorial Day cemetery services, and 50+ year membership in
the St. Joseph American Legion Post 464, where he once followed the footsteps of his father and
held the prestigious position of Commander. As a proud Vietnam veteran (1971-1977), his
commitment to his country was undeniable.
In the community, Ron, his parents, and even his Grandpa were familiar faces as owners and
drivers of School Bus #13 and activity buses of his children’s sports teams. He would always greet
passengers with a “good morning” and a friendly smile. His mechanical prowess spanned 47 years
as a small engine mechanic at Schroeder’s Sales and Service in Harrison, OH. He not only fixed
lawnmowers, snowblowers, chainsaws and tractors, but also spent many hours mending his
children’s broken down vehicles. Through each repair, Ron built lasting friendships, initiated with a
tool in one hand and grease-soaked towel prepping for a handshake with the other.
It was his grease-stained hands that his children loved and viewed as a constant reminder of the
strong work-ethic he instilled upon each one of them. Ron was a proud father to Philip, Molly
(Josh) Mason, Sarah (Jared) Leiker, Amanda (Adam) Rosselot, and Tanya (Jake) Zengerling. His six
grandchildren, Caleb, Aaron & Tyler Mason, Owen & Olivia Leiker, and Amelia Zengerling, were a
light in his life, as were four, little, unborn angels. He also leaves behind numerous nieces,
nephews, and cousins.
In his family, Ronald was the glue, holding them together not with duct tape, but with boundless
love, kindness, and an ever-ready willingness to lend a helping hand. His Catholic faith was a
grounding force in the way he led his life, always showing up for and serving others. From his early
days as an altar server at St. John’s to assisting with renovations and beautifying the church from
the inside out, Ron’s commitment to his church family ran deep. And if there was ever any doubt
how much Ron loved his All Saints Parish, St. John’s community, then you must not have tasted the
chicken at the Summer festival. He poured his heart and soul into the fried chicken…but only
because he didn’t want to run out of pepper!
Though Ronald Gaynor may have departed this world, his spirit lives on in the memories of those
he touched, the community he enriched, and the love he shared. His absence will be deeply felt,
but his legacy will endure through the lives he influenced and the hearts he impacted.
“That’s it. Period. End of Quote” ~ Ron Gaynor
Services for Ron will begin with a Rosary at 3:45pm followed by visitation from 4:00pm – 8:00pm
on Thursday, March 7 from 4:00pm – 8:00pm at St. John the Baptist Church of All Saints Parish.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin on Friday, March 8 at 11:00am immediately followed by burial
with military honors in the church cemetery. For those unable to attend, Mass will be live
streamed at https://www.youtube.com/user/aspweeklyhomily. Memorials can be made to the
Masses, All Saints Parish, St. Joseph American Legion Post 464, and American Cancer
Society. Family and friends are encouraged to leave condolences at www.andres-
wuestefeldfh.com