Ronald J. McKenna

Ronald James McKenna, of Congers, NY, passed away peacefully at the age of 82, on May 15, 2025 surrounded by his girls. He was a devoted Husband, Father, Bamps, Brother and Uncle. Ron left an indelible mark on everyone he met. Ron is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Peggy and his daughters; Eileen (Mike) and Maureen. Ron is also survived by his pride and joys, his 5 Grands; Ryann, James, Emma, Finn and Ella. He is predeceased by his brothers James and Robert. He was the treasured Uncle to many.

Born on August 7, 1942, in Astoria, Queens, NY. Ron lived his early childhood in Spring Valley before moving to Pearl River. Ron is a proud graduate of Pearl River High School, class of 1961. Upon graduation, Ron joined the U.S. Army, where he served in Europe before joining Special Forces Airborne. Ron was honorably discharged in 1969 at the rank of Sergeant. Upon his return to the States, he married the love of his life, Peggy. Together, they built a lifetime of love and laughter. Ron joined the Spring Valley Police Department in 1970 where he served for 24 years, and retired at the rank of Sergeant in 1994. During his retirement he remained very involved with the Policemen’s Benevolent Association of Rockland County. He served as the Treasurer for 18 years.

Ron was the rock all his family turned to for everything and he was always there with a smile, a hammer and sage advice. He enjoyed woodworking and American History. His humor, stories and love of short cuts will be missed forever.

A celebration of Ron’s life and legacy will take place on Tuesday, May 20th, with visitation from 4-8 pm, at Michael J. Higgins Funeral Home, 113 Lake Road, Congers, NY 10920. A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at 11:15 am at St. Paul’s Church, 82 Lake Road, Congers, NY 10920. A burial will take place at Gethsemane Cemetery, Rockland Lake, immediately following.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations in Ron’s memory be made to the following foundations:

Memorial Sloan Kettering: www.msk.org/giving

Tunnel to Towers Foundation: www.t2t.org