It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald “Ronnie” Edward Opphile. On October 16, 2023, Ronnie passed peacefully at home, surrounded by family, after a lengthy battle with cancer, which he always met with a great deal of courage and determination. He was 84 years old.
Ronnie was preceded in death by his father Carroll William Opphile, his mother, Mary Lasko, his step-father, Paul Lasko, and his brother-in-law, Bill Fox.
Ronnie is survived by his loving wife, Judy Opphile, his sons, Derek Opphile and Mark Opphile, his sister, Nina Fox, his brother Steve Lasko and Steve’s wife Paula, his step-brother, Paul Lasko, his nephew, Joe Tabaracci and Joe’s wife Angela, his great niece, Lisa Limberakis, granddaughters, Brit Schulte, Katie Schulte, and Erin Byrne, as well as his step-children, Mike Schulte, Mike’s wife Nancy as well as Trudy Schulte, and her husband Ken Kaiser.
Born on April 2, 1939 Ronnie grew up in Galveston, Texas, and after graduating Ball High School, he was very proud to have served in the Navy on the USS Vesole stationed in Charleston SC until 1962. After the service, he returned to Galveston where he began his career as a small business owner, and also started a family, having two sons. As an avid car enthusiast, he eventually made a career change to car dealerships, holding positions in both sales and service.
Ronnie was then introduced to the love of his life, Judy, by mutual friends and eventually married in 1980. Wanting to focus more on supporting other hard working professionals in many fast-paced industries, Ronnie changed careers to become a Snap-on Tools dealer, and the couple eventually moved to Conroe, Texas.
After more than 15 years with Snap-on Tools as a top ranked Dealer, and finally a Field Manager, he retired in 1999 to focus on family and travel. Some of his colleagues still call him their “Snap-on Dad” – this speaks to his dedication and exceptionally hard-working nature. The way Ronnie lived his life was an inspiration to everyone he touched; helping friends and family alike be more caring, and morally grounded human beings. Ronnie truly was a teacher who guided many people in positive ways.
In his free time and post-retirement, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and traveling with Judy in their camper all around the country with a beloved group of friends. While Ronnie was often quiet, contemplative and reserved, he also knew how to be the life of the party, and had some great dance moves to boot! A lifelong animal lover, Ronnie had many cherished pets over the years, that his family watched him dote on and fuss over affectionately.
His wife, Judy, wishes for those to remember Ronnie as a fighter, and asks everyone to support cancer research and survivor advocacy in honor of Ronnie. She would also like to thank his medical team at MD Anderson as well as Harbor Hospice for the amazing care they provided.
His sister, Nina, wishes that everyone could have a loving brother, as wonderful as Ronnie.
Coming to know Ronnie, understanding his nature, and the love he held for our Mother, Mike and Trudy knew well prior to their marriage that they would never have to worry about their Mom again – which proved to be true to the very end.
His grandchildren, Brit, Katie and Erin, will remember his wry humor and fun times playing together with the dogs -spending time grilling outdoors and telling jokes.
The family requests in lieu of flowers, and in memory of Ronald Opphile, that contributions be made to: MD Anderson Cancer Center, P.O. Box 4486, Houston, TX 77210-4488 Or online via MDAnderson.org/Gifts
A celebration of life for Ronald will be held Wednesday, October 25, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Cashner Funeral Home, 801 Teas Road, Conroe, Texas 77303.Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.cashnerconroe.com for the Opphile family.
