Ronald E. Semega

Ronald Edward Semega, age 89, passed away peacefully at home on February 25, 2026, with his loving wife Sally at his side. In his final months he lived in New Albany, Ohio, after many happy years in Fairview Park, Ohio.

Ron was born on June 10, 1936, in Cleveland, Ohio, to John and Ann (Macko) Semega. The youngest of three children, he grew up alongside his brother Robert and sister Dorothy in a close-knit Slavic neighborhood. His grandparents had immigrated from Czechoslovakia, and the traditions, foods, and strong family bonds of his Eastern European heritage remained meaningful throughout his life. He attended St. Andrew’s Grade School in Cleveland and later graduated from Cathedral Latin High School.

Ron built a long and successful career in manufacturing and purchasing. Early in his career he completed Dale Carnegie business and leadership courses that helped shape his professional success. He worked for Hansen Manufacturing as a purchasing agent for many years, and later continued his career with the Tuthill Corporation, where he served as vice president of purchasing and overseas shipping until his retirement.

Ron believed life was meant to be lived fully and actively. Fishing was a lifelong passion that began when he was young, spending time on Ohio lakes with his father. Later, he owned a boat on Lake Erie where he shared his love of fishing with family. He also enjoyed memorable fishing trips to Ontario, Canada, always hoping to land the “big one” — Northern Pike or Largemouth Bass.

Ron enjoyed working with his hands and creating things. He spent time woodworking and working with ceramics, producing pieces that family members still treasure. He also loved trains, visiting restored railways and riding historic trains whenever possible, and building detailed model train sets.

Service to others was central to Ron’s life. When his sons joined Boy Scouts, he became an Assistant Scoutmaster, organizing camping trips and making sure everyone had a great experience. At St. Angela Merici Parish in Fairview Park, Ron volunteered extensively and served with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, helping gather food and support families in need throughout Northeast Ohio. He remained deeply committed to his Catholic faith throughout his life.

Ron loved to travel and explore new places. His favorite vacations included trips to the beaches of Nags Head, North Carolina, visits to the Allegheny Mountains to see the fall colors, and travels to the Pacific Northwest including British Columbia and Washington State. Closer to home, he enjoyed walks in the Metroparks, exercising on his treadmill, and spending time outdoors.

One of Ron’s great prides was the home he and Sally created in Fairview Park. Together they planted trees and flowers and created a beautiful yard. Ron took special pride in maintaining what he jokingly called the best lawn in the neighborhood—so green and perfectly trimmed that he liked to say the Cleveland Guardians could play on it.

Ron also loved good food and wine and enjoyed introducing friends and family to both. He delighted in sharing wines from around the world and telling stories about the vineyards and grapes from which they came. His quick, wry sense of humor often turned ordinary moments into laughter.

Ron often shared simple advice that reflected his outlook on life: “You make life what you want of it.” and with a smile he would add, “Columbus took a risk.”

Above all, Ron loved his family. His kindness, generosity, and steady presence touched the lives of everyone who knew him.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife of 31 years, Sally Semega; his children Ronald D. Semega, David A. Semega, and Susan (Bryan) Grys; and his stepsons Jeff (Heather) Johnston and Kenneth Johnston. He is also survived by his grandchildren Flint Semega, Daniel Theiss, Cole Johnston, and Luke Johnston and his great granddaughter Aubree Theiss, along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ann Semega, his brother Robert, and his sister Dorothy.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Corrigan Funeral Home in Fairview Park, Ohio, from 5:00–8:00 PM on Wednesday, March 18. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:30 AM at St. Angela Merici Church in Fairview Park, Ohio, followed by interment at Sunset Memorial Park in North Olmsted, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s research or the American Cancer Society.

Ron’s generosity, faith, humor, and love for his family will be remembered always by those who knew and loved him.