Ron was born in Ashtabula, Ohio, to Don and Betty Congdon on May 26, 1940. After graduating from Jefferson High School, he earned a Bachelor of Science followed by a Master of Education from Kent State University. He then began a 35-year teaching career in 1965 at West Geauga schools. He created and designed unique classes such as Aviation and Electricity. Teaching Photography and more, he touched and inspired thousands of lives until his retirement in 2000. He served on the council of Newbury United Community Church for many years and as president and treasurer of a local Experimental Aircraft Association chapter in Painesville.
Ron met Sue in 1969 through mutual friends and married in 1970. After sons Jeffrey and Brett were born, he designed and built the family home in 1981 and an addition in 2000. Though he lived in Ohio his whole life, he and Sue traveled the world together. They hoped to celebrate their 50th anniversary in Hawaii, Ron’s favorite place.
Ron continued his love of aviation in retirement by attending air shows and serving on the brain trust at IWASM (International Women's Air & Space Museum). He volunteered at the Geauga County Century Village, helping children construct items used in pioneer days. He built a workshop to enjoy another hobby, renovating vintage trucks and tractors, which he showed in parades, fairs, and local shows.
He is survived by his wife, Susan; children, Jeff (Melissa) and Brett (Jennifer); grandchildren Grant, Alec, Austin, Elia, Johanna, and Jaxson; sisters Cherie Havens (Rollin, deceased) and Ruth Ann Theil (Jack).
Visiting hours will be held on Friday, November 29th from 1:00 – 4:00 pm at the Gattozzi and Sons Funeral Home, 12524 Chillicothe Rd. Chesterland. A memorial service will be at Christ Presbyterian Church on Saturday, November 30th at 10:00 am. Family and friends are invited to a light lunch following burial.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to: Ron Congdon Memorial Technology Fund, 8615 Cedar Road
Chesterland OH 44026
