Mr. Ronald C. Balogh

Mr. Ronald C. Balogh

Mr. Ronald C. Balogh

Mr. Ronald C. Balogh
December 24, 1946 – August 14, 2020

A Memorial Service will be Saturday, October 3 at 1:30pm for immediate family only, for all others, the service will be live-streamed on the Hope Ridge United Methodist Church Facebook page (no Facebook account is required). www.facebook.com/HopeRidgeUMC/

Ronald Clair Balogh, 73, of Painesville, Ohio and Estero, Florida died Friday, August 14, 2020 in Naples, Florida.

Ron was born in Indiana, PA and raised in Painesville, OH by his parents William S. and Doreen C. Balogh who predeceased him. He was a 1964 graduate of Thomas W. Harvey High School. He earned a BS in Music Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1968, an MS in School Administration from the University of Akron in 1974, and did post graduate work at the University of Akron, Kent State University, and Cleveland State University.

Ron began his long, illustrious career with the Painesville City Schools in 1968, serving as the choir director/vocal music teacher at Walnut Middle School. He soon followed his passion the next year while serving as band director at Walnut Middle School and assisting with the marching band at Harvey High School. He officially assumed the role of band director/marching band director at Harvey High School in 1970, serving through 1975.

Ron was a guidance counselor at Harvey High School from 1975 to 1977, while also serving as the Principal of the Painesville Area Adult Education Program, a role he held until 1980. Ron became the Assistant Principal at Harvey High School in 1977 and also the District Computer Coordinator until his retirement in 2003. He worked for Painesville ABLE from retirement until 2012.

Long-time friend, Beatrice Britt, said it best when she nominated him for the 1996 Harvey Alumni Association Hall of Fame of Distinguished Graduates. “Ron feels an intense sense of responsibility to others who depend on him. His greatest achievements seem to be those which impact students whose challenges in life seem to be greater than average – students who, without his influence, may be led to make choices on impulse or emotion, rather than with guidance and support. He has touched countless lives and for that, we thank him.”

Ron gave generously of his time and talents to the community and made a significant impact with his service to: Harvey Alumni Marching 100 (director and founder), Harvey Alumni Association(founding member), Harvey Alumni Association Endowment Fund (founding member), State of Ohio PTA District 17 Educator of the Year (1983), Painesville Civil Service Commission (member and chairman), Lake County Branch NAACP Scholarship Committee, Harriet B Storrs Scholarship Committee, C.A.R.E. (Chemical Abuse Reduced by Education), D.A.R.E. Band “Station House Rock”, National Education Association (lifetime member), Ohio Education Association (lifetime member), National Association of Secondary Principals, Ohio Association of Secondary Principals, Painesville Kiwanis, and B.P.O.E. Painesville Elks Club #549 (lifetime member).

Ron’s love of music permeated his life. The big band sound of Traces entertained other music lovers in a variety of settings, including Painesville Party in the Park, New Year’s Eve at Quail Hollow, and weddings to name a few. Not only did Ron create Traces, he directed the band and contributed his own talents on saxophone and keyboards. He was also the keyboardist for the Steppin’ Out Band from 1991 to 2001.

Ron was a member of Hope Ridge United Methodist Church in Mentor, OH where he was the organist. His talents as an organist enabled him to play for many weddings through the years. When he spent time wintering in Florida, Ron joined the First United Methodist Church of Bonita Springs, first as a volunteer and then as assistant to the choir director.

Ron distinguished himself as a fierce advocate for kids and all things having to do with Painesville, in general, and Harvey High School in particular. His is a legacy that will live on and on.

Survivors are his sisters Marilyn B. Moser of Pinehurst, NC and Deb (Bob) Carpenter of Jackson Springs, NC, his niece, Stephanie (Kirk) Phipps of Charlotte, NC, and his cousins in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and New York. He is also survived by his dog, Bella, whom he saved many years ago. She was his faithful companion and the love of his life.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, October 3 at 1:30pm for immediate family only. For all others, the service will be live-streamed on the Hope Ridge United Methodist Church’s Facebook page (no Facebook account is required). www.facebook.com/HopeRidgeUMC/ A celebration of life will follow at Hellriegel’s Inn, Painesville, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Harvey Alumni Endowment Fund at 200 W. Walnut Avenue, Painesville, OH. 44077.

Arrangements by Naples Funeral Home of Naples, Florida (naplesfuneralhome.com)

Condolence

Hai Thanh Nguyen

August 15, 2020, 12:44 am

I am honored and blessed to have known you – Mr. Ronald C. Balogh. You were truly a blessing in my life and I will miss you. My GOD give you eternal rest and I will keep you in my prayer always. My heartfelt condolences to the family. Love you – Mr. Balogh.

Carol A Ray

August 15, 2020, 11:21 pm

To the Family of Ron.
He will surely be missed. He was a dear friend to my husband and me. We were neighbors at the Residences. We visited him in his hometown in Ohio for a nice weekend. He was a gentle soul.
Very kind and giving. We loved you Ron. I will miss your dinner parties and outings. And miss hearing you tell me, “yes dear”. Please Rest In Peace. You are Home in Heaven.

Carol and Charlie

Scott

August 16, 2020, 1:13 am

My musical mentor Mr Ron Balough aka Coach
You taught me professionalism with music in the theater during my short time I. The musical orchestra/ band. You not only expected respect but always gave respect, you passion to teach music still sits with me today. You will be missed
Your legacy will live
May GOD bless your soul at heavens gate may your family find peace. You are loved by us all

Scott AHA mashed potatoes

Constance Mitchell

August 16, 2020, 4:17 pm

The HHS class of 1970 mourn the passing of an outstanding musical educator. RIP Mr. Balogh. Connie Poxon Mitchell

Michael Flick

August 16, 2020, 9:12 pm

Me. Balogh saved my life by encouraging me time and time again to finish school. He went up and beyond as a friend, mentor and disciplinarian. After I finished the US Army Special Forces Course he asked me to come back and give my experiences and relate to kids that were in a challenging place in life at Harvey High School. I had never been so humbled to serve as he had always done, a highlight in my life. He was an inspiration to me from high school on and the world has suffered a great loss. My prayers are with his family and I know GOD has an angel among angels with HIM now. Thank YOU LORD for allowing us time with him.

Roberta Bates

August 19, 2020, 12:45 am

Mr. Balogh taught me to play drums for sixth grade band back in 1971, we were the first girls to play drums and he was very supportive of us. We then met up again at Harvey High when he was the Assistant Principal. He got me out of trouble so many times and I will always be grateful. I am so glad he came to our 40th Class Reunion last summer it was great for all of us to see him again, sadly for the last time. He was the epitomy of a Harvey Red Raider and a wonderful person. He will be missed by all the lives he touched along the way. The class of 1979 sends it’s heartfelt condolences to all of Mr. Balogh’s family and friends. Rest in Peace Mr. Balogh it was an honor to know you.

Bob and Darlene Skillman

August 19, 2020, 3:41 pm

To Ron’s Family,
We were saddened to hear of Ron’s passing. What a sad day for the Harvey H.S. faculty and staff. I had the pleasure of working with Ron as a secretary at HHS. May our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ hold you in the Palm of His hands and give you comfort and peace. Rest in Peace Ron.

James Stark

August 20, 2020, 4:15 am

I am saddened to hear of his passing. I enjoyed hearing him play and singing in the choir at First UMC.

Marissa Veitch

August 20, 2020, 6:00 pm

To Mr. Balogh’s Family,
He made an impact on me that will last a lifetime. His example helped me realize that actions speak louder than words. I have applied this to my daily life and the upbringing of my daughter. He will be missed by all.

Belinda Fulton

August 20, 2020, 8:21 pm

He was the educator everyone was safe to go to. He knew his students and was interested in their success. Pair that with super music skills, and a kind heart and you have this man who will be missed by his communities. Everyone in each of his circles mattered to him. May he Rest In Peace

Scott Brown

August 20, 2020, 8:29 pm

I remember the day Mr. Balogh arrived as a new teacher. I could tell from day one, even as a student, that he was someone with a big heart and great talent. His dedication and passion for everything Painesville and Harvey High School serves as an exemplary model for others. I feel fortunate to have crossed paths as a student at Walnut Junior High School and HHS, and then later as part of the HHS Alumni HOF. He truly led a life of purpose. May Ron’s memory be a blessing.

JoEllen Vasbinder

August 20, 2020, 8:59 pm

A life with purpose, caring and dedication to what he believed. A life well spent. My condolences to his family and friends.

An (Nguyen) Boyd

August 20, 2020, 9:08 pm

My life was made better for having known Mr. Balogh. He was a mentor to me and taught me life lessons I still apply today. I was privileged to know and learn from him. May he rest in peace. I send my deepest condolences to his family. May God’s love comfort you in the days and weeks ahead.

Kendyl Caldwell

August 20, 2020, 9:45 pm

To the family,
Mr. Balogh was a wonderful, beautiful soul. He blessed so many with his time and talents.
May you be comforted by precious memories and the peace of the Lord.

The Hamilton family

John K

August 20, 2020, 9:56 pm

Mr. Balogh was a great friend and mentor throughout my time at Harvey, and someone I could reach out to long afterwards. Just an amazing human being which I will always be truly grateful for. The world definitely needs more like him.
Thank you sir.

Jim Michels

August 20, 2020, 10:07 pm

I knew Mr. Balogh through our 5 children – all proud Painesville Harvey graduates. What a kind, caring and wonderful role model he was for all Harvey students. He was revered by all who knew him, both students and adults.

Dave Roessner

August 20, 2020, 10:40 pm

Ron was one in a million. His love of friends and community will be missed.
God bless you Ron and Thanks for everything.

Ron & Cheryl Terriaco

August 20, 2020, 10:50 pm

We are both saddened of the loss of Ron. It is obvious that he had an influence in so many lives in the Painesville area. His contributions will be cherished forever. Our thoughts and prayers to you Deb and your loving family. God bless!

Cindy Palmer

August 20, 2020, 11:54 pm

Ron Balogh was an advocate for me when I first came to Harvey High School as a teacher in the English Department. Eventually, he moved from being a coworker to becoming a dear friend. His sincere concern and compassion, along with his willingness to listen, was an impetus which assisted so many students to confidently achieve their goals. It was with great sadness that I learned of his passing and I regard it as an honor to have known such a remarkable human being. My condolences to Marilyn, Deb, and sweet Bella, his beloved pet, as well as to all those who loved him, for the loss of this wonderful person.

Dan Chervenak

August 21, 2020, 12:01 am

My condolences to a great person and asset to all who knew him.

I remember his smile and enthusiasm for us students.

Dianne M (Carothers) Bradbury

August 21, 2020, 12:23 am

I am saddened to hear the passing of Ron Balogh. I graduated a year before him but knew of him. He helped give us a tour of the old HHS before it was torn down as a part of our reunion. God bless his family.

Joan Gottschling

August 21, 2020, 12:38 am

Ron will be so greatly missed not only to all the groups he supported but everyone he had touched over the years, his family and friends. I am proud to have worked with him at Harvey and the Painesville City Schools. I have many memories but one is him playing piano for the plays in the auditorium. He was such a musical talent. God bless Ron. I’m so sad for the family. Thinking of all of you.

Mark Jacobs

August 21, 2020, 1:34 am

Mr. Balogh was a huge part of my life in my younger years. I was an office aide for him during my study hall periods. I played with him in his jazz band traces starting my junior year of high school through my early twenties. I sat right beside him as we both played saxophone. He taught me how to play racquetball. He was one of my biggest supporters next to my parents. I am deeply saddened by his passing. Many heartfelt condolences to his family. Mr Balogh touched the lives of many many people in his time here with us. I hope he realised how much of an impact he had in so many people, and his grateful all of us are for him being a presence in our lives and believing in us and pushing us to go for it when we may not have believed in ourselves. I will miss you Mr Balogh

Dianne Jackson

August 21, 2020, 1:52 am

I have many fond memories of Mr. Balogh. He was a listening ear and a helping hand when ever I needed it. I am grateful to have known him.

Deborah Adams

August 21, 2020, 2:17 am

So very sorry to hear of Ron’s passing. His dedication to the community, his talents and his accomplishments are immeasurable. Always treated everyone with kindness and encouragement. He was immediately respected by anyone who met him. Ron will be greatly missed. Condolences to his family and friends.

Jackie Daiello

August 21, 2020, 2:22 am

So very sorry for the news. He will be missed. R.I.P God Bless the family. Prayers are sent amen

Madeline Wainio Crouser

August 21, 2020, 3:13 am

Ron. Rest in peace. Thank you for all you did for Painesville and especially Harvey High School and the music department. It was an honor to know you. You will be missed.

Barb Rogers & Gene Horvath

August 21, 2020, 11:18 am

Deb and Marilyn, we are both so sorry to hear about the passing of Ron, your brother.
Take solace in knowing he is in a better place. Our thoughts and prayers are with you both.

Jim Locastro

August 21, 2020, 1:13 pm

You will not find a better man than Ron. Education was more than a career to him it was his love. His kindness will never be forgotten. May God bless him.

Bill Zatorsky

August 21, 2020, 3:29 pm

pretty good guy. Loved his choice in music. I still remember all of our songs and can still play them. My favorite, Poet and Peasant. It was every Bugs Bunny sound track, like ever. I visited him when he was Asst. Principal of Harvey. He remembered me and we talked for like hours. He knew i couldn’t read music but played it from my heart. He never reprimanded me for not playing my 3rd chair music, but embraced what I brought to the table, without me ever knowing what he was doing till years later. I will always respect that and I still remember that. I still think about him every time I pick up an instrument and play it. Especially the trumpet. The world is a little worse off with him not in it. I will remember him and his influence on my music career forever. Thanks Ron……

Deborah A McGee

August 21, 2020, 4:29 pm

I will always respect what a wonderful person Mr Balogh was.. I worked as an office aide and had many interactions w him during my years at Harvey. He will be Greatly Missed

Lois (Nichols) Biagiola

August 21, 2020, 4:53 pm

To Mr. Balogh’s family, I’m sure you know how much he was loved, and his life will be celebrated by those who were blessed to know him (especially in Painesville, Ohio). We share in your loss, but are happy that he is now with God and at peace. We wish you comfort and strength in the coming days, and smiles when you think of Ron and what he meant to all of us. God bless you all.

Phil Rigden

August 21, 2020, 5:39 pm

Mr. Balogh was assistant principal while I was at Harvey HS, as well as the pianist who accompanied every musical in which I took part at Harvey. There are so many memories, and not a bad one in the lot. Painesville and the schools have lost a great man. May God bless the family in this time of loss and his memory to all who knew and loved him.

Gail (Freedman) Brown Van Ekeren

August 21, 2020, 6:35 pm

Gail Freedman Brown Van Ekeren, and my sister, Linda (Laeh) Freedman, and Brother, Craig Freedman
Ron brought us all wonderful experiences in music–I marched in the marching band with him, as did my sister; my brother, Craig, sang in the choir, which he lead, even singing a solo (which neither of his siblings knew. I also benefited from the alumnae band and marching band. He had a great mentor in Mr. Nummi, and was a great mentor. I have very fond memories and had great experiences living in Painesville, and going to Harvey. AS an educator also, I share the wonderful experiences of watching our kids mature. Ron was a good friend. He affected many people. May his memory be blessing.

Deborah Burnham

August 21, 2020, 7:19 pm

An amazing musician — piano, organ, oboe, sax — a kind and thoughtful counselor, a serious and utterly devoted citizen of Harvey and of Painesville. He was unique and will be missed terribly.

Robyn Daciola Potter

August 21, 2020, 9:29 pm

May you Rest in peace Mr Balogh. Glad to have known you.

Carmen berardinelli

August 22, 2020, 2:32 am

Rest in peace Ron you where a great person when I went to Harvey you will be missed

Kevin McGoff

August 22, 2020, 1:11 pm

Our friend Ron was one of those special people that come along once in our lives and we are all better for it. I will miss our lunches at Hellriegels and our conversations, and his love for our beautiful Painesville and beloved Harvey will live forever. We love you Ron

Bryan Norris

August 22, 2020, 1:59 pm

So very sorry to hear this. Ron, Mr. Balogh, an inspiration and a great person to have known. I will always be grateful for the short time I had at HHS and after my time there. Bless you Ron and your family.

Sean

August 23, 2020, 9:48 pm

I met Mr. Balogh in 1990 while he was an assistant principal at Harvey. He introduced me to a world of music that I appreciate to this day. Through music he taught me how to appreciate different cultures, tolerance and patience. He and I kept in contact through the years. His dedication to improving himself and others never faltered and I can truly say I have done more than I thought possible with his support. I count him as one of my best friends and an inspiring mentor. Mr. Balogh you will be sadly missed by many. RIP

Carol and Barry Wallman

August 24, 2020, 12:52 pm

The Bonita Springs First United Methodist Church and church choir will surely miss Ron and his piano and organ playing…plus his choir directing. He made choir an enjoyable weekly practice session. We always hated to see Spring come as we knew Ron would head north to his beloved Ohio for the summer. We could never talk him into staying in Florida. Then we looked forward to his return in the Fall. Often the choir would give him a gift certificate in appreciation of his kind and dedicated work with us…and he always went out and bought the brightest gym shoes he could find!! He loved showing them off to us. We will miss him so much, but we have been blessed to have him been a part of our lives for a few short years.

David Sawtelle

August 24, 2020, 3:47 pm

My name is David Sawtelle the new worship and music director at FUMC, Bonita Springs. I am saddened that I never had an opportunity to meet Ron Balogh in person. I was looking forward to collaborating with him with uplifting musical projects at FUMC.

I am in the final steps of finalizing a special musical tribute of “Spirit Song” for Ron. I was told that Spirit Song was one of Ron’s favorites, and that he would play it on the piano any chance he had! I’d like to have this music video ready for this weeks Sunday’s service (8/30/20).
If you are able could you please email me any pictures you might have of Ron that you would like to share to be included in this musical video tribute.
Please send the pics soon as I will finalize the production by Thursday. My email is: [email protected]
Thank you very much and blessings to all during this time of heartache.

Linda Takacs

August 24, 2020, 11:06 pm

My condolences to the family for your loss,My husband,Tom Takacs went to School with Ron and spoke very highly of him.May he rest in peace.Sincerely,Linda Takacs Painesville Ohio.

James Barksdale

August 25, 2020, 7:55 pm

The man that had no choice but to expell me twice from high school. Each time telling me. I’ll see you next year. And he did.I managed to graduate high school been to a couple of colleges and had still remain friends with him and working on his house when I came to Painesville Oh loved him to death he will be missed.
R. N. H.

Art Lazar

August 25, 2020, 11:02 pm

Ron was a kind and friendly person! He loved helping others through out his whole life! He loved his music! Was one of his musicians and friend in Traces, Steppin’ Out, and Harvey musicals. He will be missed. May he be helping the angels sing…. Praise!

Loretta Vandervort, Riverside Alumni Association

August 27, 2020, 1:29 am

Ron, you will always have a place in my heart. I enjoyed working with you on the Duck Race Committee and at the events for about six years.
We could always count on you in making certain that every detail was in place the night before the event and throughout the week-end.
Thank you Ron for all of your dedicated service for the good of the students at Harvey High School and The Riverside Alumni Association. With
out you allowing Riverside Alumni Assoc. to be a part of the Har-Riv Duck Race, our efforts to support the Association and our students needs would not have been possible.
Peace Ron, peace.

Melova Hylton- Avraham

September 7, 2020, 8:18 pm

During his life, Ron impacted and
touched many individuals in meanin-
gful ways. Words cannot express how
how fortunate, I was to have met him.
His encouragement, caring and support
is immeasurable, and was constant.
Persons like Ron comes along once in a
lifetime. Apprecited the information shared, during the brief time I’ve
known him. He will always have a
special place in our hearts.
Condolences to Ron’s family, and
friends. The Hylton family.
Melova Hylton -Avraham

Roberta H. Johnston

October 4, 2020, 1:18 am

Oh, Ron I dearly remember you stopping in our home, for a very brief interlude, (while directing HHS marching band around the block) at 99 Gillette Street, Painesville, and playing the piano. It was in the afternoon, and we thoroughly enjoyed your music. It was a moment of magic. Time frame: 1970.
Roberta Heine Johnston HHS class of 1961.

Roberta H. Johnston

October 4, 2020, 1:20 am

Sincere regards for the family of Ron Balough. May the Lord be with you.

Bill and Judi Guegold

March 3, 2021, 2:18 pm

Just saw the notice. Ron was a wonderful mentor and friend as I followed him as band director at Harvey in 1975. He taught Judi and me how to fish and we had many good laughs with him during our time in Painesville! During band camp at Camp Asbury he would fish during the day and fry up the catch for the staff to eat after lights out. In all my years in education I don’t think I knew anyone who was as dedicated to his community, school and students as Ron. Our condolences to his family and friends.

Bill and Judi Guegold

Diego Murphy

September 5, 2021, 7:51 pm

I am writing this to say thank you Mr Balogh.
Thank you for all you have done for me. You taught me how to be a the best person I can be. You taught me how to play drums and I still play today. Without you I would not have graduated high school. For that I thank you. Watching you and listening to you I learned how to treat people. Everyone you helped was the most important person to you in that moment, and you you made them feel that way. You will forever be loved and missed. I lost a friend on earth, but God gained an angel.

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