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Ronald Gene (Ron) Eikenberry, 82, passed away January 12, 2018 at home, in the loving arms of his family, after a long struggle with Parkinson's and dementia. Ron was born June 2, 1935 in Greenville, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his parents, Velma (Deeter) and Myron A. Eikenberry, and by his brother, Nils G. Eikenberry.
Ron graduated from Greenville High School (GHS) in 1953, received a Bachelor's degree in Economics from Harvard University in 1957, a Master's degree in Secondary Education from Miami University in 1961, and a Doctorate in Education Administration from Ohio State University in 1967. He is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force Reserves.
Ron's career in Education began as a teacher in Kettering Schools in Kettering, Ohio, continued as a Principal in Southwestern Schools in Grove City, Ohio, Assistant Superintendent of Schools, District 88, Villa Park, Illinois, and Superintendent of Schools in New Philadelphia, Ohio. In 1976, he returned to Greenville to join the family business of Eikenberry's Foodliners.
Ron was an athlete all of his life, playing football at GHS and Harvard, and basketball and track at GHS, where he still holds the school record for the 100 yard dash. He was elected to the Greenville Athletic Hall of Fame in 1992 for his athletic accomplishments. Ron was an avid golfer all of his life.
Ron is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Judy Knoll Eikenberry, daughters Susan (Reggie) Bitter, Avon Ohio, Sara (Daniel) Barkdoll, Lawrenceburg, Indiana, son, John (Stephanie) Eikenberry, Portland Oregon, and sister, Mona (George) Ludwick, Juno Beach, Florida. Also surviving are grandchildren Sam, Jake and Julia Bitter, Bethany (Jimmy) Rice, Abigail (Jason) Rueger, Josiah, Benjamin, Daniel and Jeremiah Barkdoll, Fiona and Liam Eikenberry.
Ron served on the Greenville School District Board of Education for 9 years and was an active member of First United Methodist Church. He also was a member of the Elks Lodge and Lions Club for many years. Ron enjoyed golf, family, reading, traveling and ice cream!
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 20th, 2 pm, at the First United Methodist Church, 202 W. 4th St., in Greenville, Ohio with Pastor Terry Cavanaugh officiating. Visitation will be Friday, January 19th, 5 pm- 8 pm at Zechar-Bailey Funeral Home, 1499 N. Broadway, Greenville, Ohio. Burial will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.
The family has requested that donations in lieu of flowers be given to the First United Methodist Church Endowment Fund, 202 W. 4th St., Greenville, Ohio or the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Disease, michaeljfox.org, The Michael J. Fox Foundation, PO Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD, 21741-5014.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Zechar Bailey Funeral Home.
January 21, 2018
Patrick McGarry
Deep sympathy, as lot him, his brother and Niles's 1st wife. Sons of my Grandpa Peterseim's 1st cousin, Myron. Myron 1st apprenticed under my great-grandfather, Walter F. Peterseim (1883-1944), who owned general stores. We heard from Niles when our Uncle Fran Peterseim passed years back, and keep in touch Joyce and now another one of their nieces. I have most the family tree (beyond the Eichenberg Book).
Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. Psalm 116:15.
My words of wisdom are: 'Plant A New Tree'
January 21, 2018
George M. Marchal
Dear Judy:
I read with profound sadness that Ron passed away. He was truly a good and decent man! I remember fondly the opportunity that I had to interact with you and Ron. He was be greatly missed. May his soul rest in peace! George M. Marchal
January 20, 2018
mike & Dianne Magnuson
It was our privilege to get to know Ron and Judy while in Village Green. Both of you have been in our prayers. We continue in prayer for the family, you all have our sympathies.
January 20, 2018
Roger and Sandra Viers
To Judy and family, please accept my deepest sympathy on Ron's passing. It was my good fortune to serve as Ron's Assistant Superintendent in New Philadelphia from 1973 to 1976. I shall always remember him as a friend, mentor, and role model. My wife and I regret we are unable to attend the services today, but know that we are there in spirit.
January 19, 2018
Tammy Abell
My heart and prayers are with you during this time. My God's peace and promises be comfort as you grief the loss of your amazing father and husband.
January 19, 2018
Even though many miles separate us, we extend our sympathies on Ron's passing and regret we cannot be present for the service. Bob & Carol
January 19, 2018
My sincere condolences to the family and friends for their loss. During this difficult time may you take some comfort from the words found at James 1:13
January 18, 2018
Fran Brubaker
Judy . . . Thinking of you and your family in the loss of your loved one, Ron. Peace be with you.
Fran & Gene Brubaker
January 17, 2018
Doris Brinker
Judy and family, so sorry to hear of Ron's passing. I never saw Ron without a smile on his face and trust me I know what you have gone through.
January 16, 2018
He was such a gentle, good and kind man, and he always made me feel good. May your cherished memories help you through this difficult time family. Judy has been a wonderful, devoted wife and his children and grandchildren showed him much respect, love and fun. We will see you on the other side Ron. You will be missed! We'll look out for Judy. I'll walk the beach with her - in your place.
Love you, Patti
January 16, 2018
Debby Sodders
Judy and family, Our sincerest condolences to you in the loss of Ron. He was a kind and gentle spirit. May God grant you peace and comfort in the days ahead. Debby and Dick Sodders
January 16, 2018
Ishikia Bennett
Sue you have our most sincere condolences in the passing of your beloved father. He was an admirable man with great accomplishments. Sounds like everyone has some very big shoes to fit to carry on his legacy. God bless you and your family with strength and comfort as you go through the grieving process.
Ishikia
January 15, 2018
David and Mariette Spidel
Condolences to the Eikenberry family in the loss of your dear one.
January 15, 2018
So sorry to hear of your father's passing Sue- he sounded like a wonderful person. May the memories help ease your sorrow. Praying for your family. Blessings- Karen Rossi
January 15, 2018
Linda McKenzie-Woods
Dear Judy and family, please accept my sincere sympathy in the passing of Ron.
God Bless.
Linda McKenzie-Woods
Brethren Homecare
January 15, 2018
Kathy Cradduck
He Was A great Boss in 1995 When I worked at Eikenberry's I'm Sorry for the Family's loss he always smiled Praying for your loss!
January 14, 2018
Gladys Crawford
So very sorry to learn of Ron's passing. Thoughts and prayers are with you, Judy and family.
January 14, 2018
Linda Hunt
Judy and family I am sorry to hear of Ron's passing. I enjoyed caring for him I was sorry when I had to stop. Prayers to all of your family.
January 13, 2018
Iris Ross
We are sadden to hear of Ron's passing and send our condolences to Judy and the family. Due to health concerns we will not be able to attend the services but know our thoughts and prayers are with you. Don and Iris Ross
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