Ronald Lee Gaynor, 72, of Dover, Ind., born on August 23, 1951, bid farewell to this world on March 4, 2024, leaving behind a legacy etched in the hearts of many. You could call him a “man of the people” or the unofficial “historian of Dover.” Maybe to you he was “my mower guy,” “the chicken fryer,” “a Veteran,” or “a faithful man.” But to those who loved him most, he was “my husband,” “our dad,” “our grandpa,” and “our brother.” Regardless of what you called him, Ron was honored to answer to any of these… just don’t call him late to dinner!
 It was this witty approach to life – full of snappy comebacks and goofy grins that his wife, Donna (Bihr), fell in love with over 47 years ago and they married on May 22, 1976, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Harrison, Ohio. Donna wasn’t the only one to benefit from his distinct sayings, as he was always punctuating conversations with his trademarks such as “Yello!”, “I reckon’”, and “Yeah, well… it’s like I said…”.
 Ron never knew a stranger; his warm charisma even charmed the cows on the 100-year-old Gaynor family farm where he enjoyed a great deal of time with his late parents, Ruth (Bulach) and Bernie Gaynor, as well as his siblings, Denny (Connie), Jake (Jackie), Mary Jane Stuerenberg, John (Katie).
 His dedication to the Army was unwavering, evidenced by his honorable service, participation in the 2023 Tri-State Honor Flight, Memorial Day cemetery services, and 50+ year membership in the St. Joseph American Legion Post 464, where he once followed the footsteps of his father and held the prestigious position of Commander. As a proud Vietnam veteran (1971-1977), his commitment to his country was undeniable.
 In the community, Ron, his parents, and even his grandpa were familiar faces as owners and drivers of School Bus #13 and activity buses of his children’s sports teams. He would always greet passengers with a “good morning” and a friendly smile. His mechanical prowess spanned 47 years as a small engine mechanic at Schroeder’s Sales and Service in Harrison. He not only fixed lawnmowers, snowblowers, chainsaws and tractors, but also spent many hours mending his children’s broken down vehicles. Through each repair, Ron built lasting friendships, initiated with a tool in one hand and grease-soaked towel prepping for a handshake with the other.
 It was his grease-stained hands that his children loved and viewed as a constant reminder of the strong work-ethic he instilled upon each one of them. Ron was a proud father to Philip, Molly (Josh) Mason, Sarah (Jared) Leiker, Amanda (Adam) Rosselot, and Tanya (Jake) Zengerling. His six grandchildren, Caleb, Aaron and Tyler Mason, Owen and Olivia Leiker, and Amelia Zengerling, were a light in his life, as were four, little, unborn angels. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
 In his family, Ronald was the glue, holding them together not with duct tape, but with boundless love, kindness, and an ever-ready willingness to lend a helping hand. His Catholic faith was a grounding force in the way he led his life, always showing up for and serving others. From his early days as an altar server at St. John’s to assisting with renovations and beautifying the church from the inside out, Ron’s commitment to his church family ran deep. And if there was ever any doubt how much Ron loved his All Saints Parish, St. John’s community, then you must not have tasted the chicken at the summer festival. He poured his heart and soul into the fried chicken…but only because he didn’t want to run out of pepper!
 Though Ronald Gaynor may have departed this world, his spirit lives on in the memories of those he touched, the community he enriched, and the love he shared. His absence will be deeply felt, but his legacy will endure through the lives he influenced and the hearts he impacted.
 “That’s it. Period. End of Quote” ~ Ron Gaynor
 Services for Ron were held at All Saints Parish on Friday, March 8 at 11 a.m. immediately followed by burial with military honors in the church cemetery. For those who were unable to attend, Mass was livestreamed at https://www.youtube.com/user/aspweeklyhomily. Memorials can be made to the Masses, All Saints Parish, St. Joseph American Legion Post 464, and American Cancer Society. Family and friends are encouraged to leave condolences at www.andres-wuestefeldfh.com.