Ronald T. Talenti

Ronald “Ron” T. Talenti, 87, of Vero Beach, FL, passed away on August 14, 2024, after a long illness. Ron was born on April 10, 1937, to Dominic and Mary Talenti, in Pittsburgh, PA. He is survived by his wife Georgia of 63 years, his siblings Allan and Lois, his three children Ronald (Lorrie), Christine (Michael), Mary (John), his grandson Joshua, many nieces and nephews, and was predeceased by his older brother Samuel.

Ron was a strong athlete in his youth playing baseball and basketball while growing up in Bridgeville PA. In high school he was a double letter man in baseball and basketball playing all four years. He graduated from Bridgeville High School in 1955 and attended Duquesne University where he met his future bride, Georgia. Ron participated in the National Guard and ROTC while attending college and received basic military training and officer training for his branch, the Army. He was honorably discharged upon completion of his service. On November 19, 1960, Ron married his college sweetheart Georgia Ann Simko, and they were married for 63 years. In September of 1961 they had twin sons, Ronald “Ronny” Michael and Anthony Ronald. Anthony predeceased Ron at birth. In January of 1963 they had their first daughter, Christine Marie. In April of 1967 they had their third son Andrew John who predeceased Ron at the age of 41. In February of 1966 their second daughter, Mary Ann was born. She and her husband John gave Ron his only grandchild, Joshua Tyler for which he chose the title of ‘Grandpa’.

Ron and Georgia spent their working lives in the Northeast. They eventually landed in the New England area where Ron had a long and successful career with General Foods in food service and sales. Ron was no stranger to hard work. In addition to his career with General Foods he and Georgia owned and operated two businesses; Humarock General Store and the Mattapoisett Diner in MA.

After retirement they moved to Florida and began a busy life of charity and community service. In 2003 Ron joined the Knights of Columbus and held several positions including Grand Knight of the Council and Faithful Navigator of the Assembly.

Ron’s greatest talents were evident in marshaling resources to those in need and fundraising to assist those less fortunate. His most profitable endeavors on behalf of the Knights were the St. Patrick’s Day feast and the annual tootsie roll campaign. Ron believed in the principles of the Knights of Columbus; charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism.

Ron and Georgia were also dedicated volunteers in their community and church and their volunteer work included visiting patients in the local Mended Hearts Chapter, leading and supporting the Tuition Assistance Fund at St. Helen’s Parish and volunteering with the food bank.

Ron was an avid sports fan and his favorite teams were the New England Patriots, the Boston Celtics and the Boston Red Sox although in his later years Ron also developed an interest in all Florida sports teams. Ron and Georgia spent many afternoons watching and cheering for their New England and Floridian teams.

In 2015 Ron and Georgia moved into Indian River Estates and discovered a wonderful community of people that quickly became friends. Ron was a remarkable person, always thinking of others and will be dearly missed.

His funeral service will be held on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at 11:00 AM at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church in Vero Beach, FL.

Services will conclude with a private interment and military honors at Hillcrest Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent in Ron's name to:

The Knights of Columbus Council 5629, 923 19th Place Vero Beach, FL 32960.