Ronald "Ron" Harvey Donoff

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald Harvey Donoff on October 7, 2024. He was a devoted husband, proud father and loving grandfather, great-grandfather and a cherished friend to many. Ronnie was married to his childhood sweetheart and the love of his life, Gail, for 61 years. He is survived by his two daughters, Heather Chinich (Danny)and Marlo Kane (David), five grandchildren: Carly, Sydney, Josh, Alexis, and Justin (Rachel), and great-grandson, Eli. Known as “Papa” by his “grands,” he cherished the milestones he was able to celebrate with them, including attending each grandchild’s college graduation. Family was the center of Ron’s life, and he found immense joy in spending time with them, creating lasting memories. Born on October 10, 1942, in Dayton, Ohio, Ronnie spent most of his childhood there and met his future wife when he was in the 5th grade. The two started dating while both students at Fairview High School and stayed together even when he left Dayton to finish high school at Staunton Military Academy in Virginia. Eventually he and Gail ended up together when they both attended THE Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. It was evident even then that his home was wherever he could be with Gail. He was an avid sports fan and never tired talking about, watching or participating in most sports, with a particular fondness for THE Ohio State University, even after he moved with his family to Dallas for his career as a national sales manager in chemical, maintenance and golf supplies. He was always proud to be a Buckeye. He was a past member of Temple Shalom and a current member of Anshai Torah. Ronnie won many trophies in his life but his B’nai Brith Bowling Championship trophy and winning the Temple Shalom Softball Championship were the highlight of his adult sports “career.” Ronnie had a love of all games, mostly poker, blackjack and spending time with his family playing Monopoly and the “road race” that followed. His love of extra-large dogs has been passed on to each generation. However, if you knew Ronnie you knew his sense of humor was unparalleled, no one could tell a story the way he could. His infectious laugh was contagious and his ability to brighten even the darkest of rooms will be sorely missed. The family is eternally thankful for the care, support, and friendship of his healthcare team: Dr. David Schwartz, Dr. Adam Shapira, Dr. David Rawitscher and Dr. Sander Gothard, words cannot express the gratitude for helping Ron defy the odds for as long as he did. A service will be held graveside at Hillcrest Memorial Park on Wednesday, October 9 at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to St. Judes ALSAC/St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Baylor Scott & White Heart Hospital of Plano 1100 Allied Drive Plano, TX 75093 Rest in peace, Ronnie. Your love, laughter, and unforgettable stories will forever remain in our hearts. We love you, more.

Ronald "Ron" Harvey Donoff

October 10, 1942 - October 7, 2024