Ronald L. "Papa Ron" Gemma

Ronald L. Gemma, 64, of Canal Fulton, passed away unexpectedly, on Monday, October 28, 2024 at his residence. Ronald was born on July 16, 1960 in Massillon, Ohio, the son of Ernest Gemma and Dora (Garver) Gemma.

Ron was a lifelong resident of the area and a 1978 graduate of Fairless High School. He worked for R&W Screw Company for 32 years before his retirement at age 49. You could always find him on Sunday mornings bright and early running the concession stand for the Northwest Youth Wrestling League. He was known for always running around and making sure no one was hungry. He donated countless hours helping his son-in-law, Justin, make sure Sunday's went smoothly.

In the summer he could be found on a lawn mower making sure his yard looked like a golf course. He would also be making sure the Northwest Sports complex had no weeds on the field his grandson would be playing on. Before every game he would help prepare the fields. Ron never met a stranger and would be there for anyone. His favorite moments are with his grandson, Bentley, whether it would be getting him on or off the bus, cruising around in the convertible, or being ornery. His favorite vacations were to Mrytle Beach with his entire family. The 3 women most important in his life were, his wife, Linda, his daughter, Candace, and his mother, Dora. He was a member of a local Stock Club group and a member of St. John Lutheran Church.

He is survived by his wife, Linda (Eversole) Gemma with whom he shared 40 years of marriage; daughter, Candace (Justin) Carter; mother,Dora Gemma; grandchild, Bentley Carter; godson, Jeremy Caudill, Jr.; friends, Jeremy Caudill, Joe Zugcic, The Satterfield Family, Rob (Gloria) Pavelzik, Bruce Kosco, Donnie Kosco, and Daryl Hickman; and others that knew him as "Papa Ron".

He was preceded in death by his father, Ernest Joseph Gemma.

The family will receive friends at the Paquelet Funeral Home on Sunday, November 3, 2024 from 2-5 pm and on Monday from 10-11 am at St. John Lutheran Church in Massillon. The funeral service will be held on Monday, November 4, 2024 at 11 am at St. John Lutheran Church. Rev. John Telloni, Officiating. Entombment will follow at Rose Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu flowers memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one's choice.

To share a memory of Ronald or leave a special message for his family, please click on Share a Memory button above.