Ronald J. Zaren

Ronald J. Zaren, a Vietnam War veteran, devoted husband and father, gifted builder, legendary storyteller, Oldies lover, and lifelong Steelers fanatic, passed away on September 17th, two days after his 79th birthday.

Ron lived his life with passion. He loved hard, laughed big, and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone. He loved to talk and tell stories, and whether every detail of those stories was entirely true was sometimes beside the point. Ron could make a story better on the spot, and anyone lucky enough to sit and listen knew they were in for a good one.

He was happiest when he was using his hands and his talents to help someone else. Ron had an incredible gift for building, fixing, creating, and figuring things out, but what mattered most was the way he used those gifts for others. Giving back was never something abstract to him. It was physical. It was showing up, building the thing, fixing the problem, and leaving something better than he found it.

A proud Vietnam War veteran, Ron carried a deep sense of loyalty, strength, and service throughout his life.

He also knew how to enjoy life. Music was meant to be played loud, especially while driving a convertible. Steelers football was serious business. A good story deserved a captive audience. And the people he loved knew just how fiercely they were loved.

Ron was, quite simply, an absolute legend. He leaves behind a lifetime of stories, things built by his hands, memories filled with music and laughter, and an enormous amount of love.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy, and his daughter, Allison (Grant), dog - Abby, and siblings; Russell Zarzeczny, Karen Josephic (Mike), Raymond Zarzeczny (Alan). He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Ranee, and his parents, Marilee and Walter Zarzeczny.

Ron’s absence will be felt deeply. He loved life with his whole heart, and he will be loved and remembered within ours.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 24 from 4 PM to 7 PM, with a funeral service on Friday, September 25 at 11 AM at H.P. Brandt Funeral Home, 1032 Perry Hwy, Pittsburgh, PA 15237; burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations in Ron’s name to The North Hills Food Bank 845 Perry Hwy, Pittsburgh, PA 15229