Ronald Charles Hardnock

Ronald Charles Hardnock came into the world on October 4, 1935 weighing in at twelve and a half pounds and the last child of Mildred and Leo Hardnock. He had two brothers, Leo and Ray and two sisters, Marion and Joan. He grew up in the town of Ashland, Pennsylvania and attended St. Joseph’s elementary and high school. Ron had many accomplishments but the one he remembers most is perfect attendance for 12 years of school. Ron was also proud of graduating first in his class of 13.

His other claim to fame was jumping from the balcony of the Roxy Theatre grabbing and swinging on the chandelier – he was banned for life! However, he did serve as an Alter Boy for St. Joseph’s Church in Ashland. But, he is still banned.

Ron enlisted in the United States Air Force in November 1953 and served to September 1957. He was a Flight Engineer and Crew Chief on a C119. He was accepted at the Air Force Academy in Colorado after serving 4 years in the military. He elected instead to go back home and entered Susquehanna University where he graduated in 1962 with a degree in Chemistry and Biology. He was President of his class and President of Phi Mu Delta fraternity.

Ron worked in pharmaceutical sales for 35 years – first with Pfizer and then Roche Labs. With Roche he was named Presidential Achievement winner 7 times. Ron met his wife, Karen, in Philadelphia and they were married in June, 1967. They lived in Perry Hall for over 46 years where they met wonderful neighbors and friends. They are the proud parents of two sons, Ron born in 1970 and Dan in 1972. They are blessed with 4 grandchildren – Jake, Madison, Jackson and Ellen and two daughters-in-laws – Wendie and Keri. Ron coached his sons in Basketball, Football and Baseball. He also served as Commissioner for the Rec League.

Ron taught his sons and wife many things over the years. We will never forget how to open a refrigerator door properly. It was a great lesson!

In 2015 Ron and Karen moved to Fallston, Maryland where they have wonderful neighbors and friends.

Do you believe in miracles – well Ron did but never thought this one would come true. Yes – the Eagles finally won a Super Bowl. A joy for all our family.

Ron enjoyed a full life with family and friends and travelled extensively through Europe. He also enjoyed Golf and Poker until Lymes disease affected his vision. He was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2017. He never complained and took it in stride.

Ron is survived by his wife, Karen, sister Joan Ryan, sons, Ron Hardnock & wife Wendie, Dan Hardnock & wife Keri. Grandchildren – Jake, Madison, Jackson & Ellen and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death – a sister Marion Delores, brothers Ray & wife Catherine and Leo & wife Louise

His life centered around family and friends. It’s been a beautiful journey with them - he will be missed!

Visitation will be held at Schimunek Funeral Home, Inc., located at 9705 Belair Rd, Nottingham, MD 21236, on December 21, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and again from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Funeral Mass is scheduled for Monday, December 22, 2025, at 10am, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 8420 Belair Rd, Nottingham, MD 21236. The interment will follow in the adjoining church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105