He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 32 years, Florence R. Shalhoop; his parents, M. J. Shalhoop and Rosa A. Shalhoop; his sister, Gail Y. Shalhoop; and his brother, John A. Shalhoop.
He is survived by his loving daughters, Susan M. Shalhoop and Karen S. (Evans) Dunn; his brother, M. Jack (Jane) Shalhoop; his special friend, Nancy K. Drakos; and his chosen grandchildren, Alexandria Corey, Nancy Kartos, Adriane Drakos, Vasili Kartos, Angelo Drakos, and Angelo Kartos. Ron will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, cousins, cherished friends, and all those whose lives he touched—including the friends who became family over the years.
Ron’s life was marked by faith, service, and a strong dedication to his work. A lifelong member of St. Elias Maronite Church, he was also a member of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church. He graduated from John Carroll Catholic High School in 1950 and proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1953 to 1955. Ron went on to build a distinguished career as a railroad engineer with the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway. For many years, he also represented his fellow railroad employees as a union official for the United Transportation Union. After 51 years of dedicated service, he retired in 2006 at the age of 74.
Throughout his life, Ron embraced many interests and simple pleasures, and he was known for his wit and ability to find humor in all parts of his life. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, a good card game, and the occasional trip to the casino. In the most recent years, he became a familiar and beloved presence at his local gym, where the many friends he made affectionately named him “The Chairman” and eagerly anticipated his daily visits. A devoted Alabama football fan, Ron rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on the Crimson Tide. Above all, he treasured time with family and friends—especially holiday gatherings, celebrations, and afternoons spent grilling and entertaining. Ron had a gift of being welcoming to others, and his authentic nature, generosity, and kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew him. While large in stature, Ron will be remembered for sharing an even bigger heart and his infectious laugh.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at St. Elias Maronite Church, 836 8th Street South, Birmingham, Alabama. The Funeral Mass will begin at 11:00 a.m., with The Reverend Elias Yazbeck officiating. Burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery. Ridout’s Elmwood Chapel is directing.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Elias Maronite Church, 836 8th Street South, Birmingham, Alabama 35205, in memory of Ronald H. Shalhoop.
