Ronald Frank Olejko (71) passed away following a lengthy illness September 5 surrounded by steadfast friends. He burst into this world May 4, 1950 and from that point on took the world by storm. Though ever proud of his Lorain, Ohio roots and extended Olejko family, a trip to New York City opened up a whole new world for him. Shortly after graduating from Baldwin Wallace College, he pulled up stakes and headed to the Big Apple. He worked as a temp and was offered permanent employment with each new assignment, but he held out for the right fit. It proved to be the Arthritis Foundation, which later branched into the College of Rheumatology. It was there he found his lifelong career, but not without another major change. The company moved to Atlanta and Ron along with it. There, his ability to light up a room, to draw people in and to make them comfortable caused his circle of friends to multiply tenfold. His official title was Senior Director — Meeting Services, American College of Rheumatology and he planned conferences all over the world. This not only fed into his love of travel, but also increased the number of his friendships yet again. Upon his retirement the ACR wrote of him, “…known for his smarts, wicked wit, rapid responses he delivered 30 years of flawless educational meetings.” They also summed his character up in one word, “Ebullient.” Ebullient —- that was Ron Olejko. His love of life was contagious. Ron Olejko was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Angeline Olejko and two partners Paul Franklin III and John (Jack) Hile.
Though, per his wishes, there will be no service for his extended family of friends and relatives to shed tears, it is preferable for those left behind to smile and be happy that he lived and brought so much joy.
Memorial contributions may be sent to the Rheumatology Research Foundation, The Actors Express or The ASPCA. Additionally, a Ronald Frank Olejko Foundation for the Performing Arts will be established in the coming months.
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