Age 87, of Upper St. Clair, peacefully on Friday, August 7, 2026, after a courageous 12 year battle with dementia. Beloved husband for 17 years of Julie (Bodkin) Rathi; devoted father of Elizabeth Levey (Andy) and Veronica Poissant (Nathan); stepfather of Gwen Rankin (BJ), Sondra Haaga (Parker) and Ethan Shepley; proud grandfather of Cohen Poissant, Nick Poissant, Austen Levey and Elodie Levey; brother of Darlene March (Howard).

Ronald was born on May 14, 1939, son of the late Joseph and Julia (Rinkacs) Rathi and was the grandson of Hungarian immigrants. Family was at the heart of Ron’s life, and he will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father and a kind, generous man.

Ron raised his two daughters, providing a steady and loving foundation throughout their childhood. He supported their dreams without hesitation, whether cheering from the sidelines of a soccer field or encouraging their work in the theater. His constant encouragement and unwavering love were lasting gifts they carried throughout their lives.

In September 2008, Ron married his wife, Julie (Bodkin) Rathi. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, travel, and music, especially enjoying concerts and time spent exploring new places.

Ron had a playful sense of humor, which he called his “third-grade humor.” He was also known for his trademark greeting of “Happy New Year,” delivered year-round simply to see people’s reactions and share a smile.

Humble and unassuming, Ron never sought attention for his accomplishments. He graduated from Duquesne High School in 1957 and later earned a degree in chemical engineering from Carnegie Tech, now Carnegie Mellon University, attending school at night while working. He was the second person in his family to attend college. His career included being named on two patents, reflecting his intelligence and creativity.

Outside of work, Ron enjoyed fishing, classical music, and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Some of his most cherished moments were spent fishing at Conneaut Lake with his cousin Jerry. Ron lived quietly and without pretense. What mattered most to him were the people he loved and the time they shared. His kindness, humor, humility, and devotion to family defined his life far more than any professional achievement. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him. 

Friends will be welcomed at Laughlin Cremation & Funeral Tributes, 222 Washington Road, Mount Lebanon on Monday from 4:00 until 7:00pm. A Funeral Service will be held at Peters Creek Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 250 Brookwood Road, Venetia, PA on Tuesday morning at 11 o’clock. (Everyone Please Meet at Church). Interment will follow in Mount Lebanon Cemetery.

Julie will be walking to cure Alzheimer's Disease and would appreciate your sponsorship @: http://act.alz.org/goto/Help-Julie-raise-funds-to-end-Alzheimers-in-honor-of-Ron 

www.laughlinfuneralhome.com