Ronald Gillenwater

Ronald Ralph Gillenwater, 83, of Pataskala, passed away on May 5, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born in Logan, West Virginia on November 16, 1941 to the late Wandell and Edith (Nottingham) Gillenwater. 

He married Opal Gale Eskew on July 30, 1960, and she survives. Along with his loving wife of over 64 years, Ron is survived by son Kevin (Lynn) Gillenwater; daughters, Kimberly (Joby) Anders, and Kara (Ross) Gillenwater; grandchildren: Jacob (Vivian) Anders, Jordan (Page) Gillenwater, Jonathan Anders, Brendan (Grace) Gillenwater, Alli and Aubree; great-grandchildren: Aiden, Hazel, Bay, Luke, Ben and Salem; and dear sibling, Donna Sue Gibson. 

Along with his dear parents, Ron is preceded in death by his brother, Larry Gillenwater. 

Ron graduated high school in 1959 from North High School. He served in active duty for the United States Army as a Medic from 1963 to 1964; and in the Army Reserves from 1964 to July of 1969. Outside of his military service, Ron’s vocation was a truck driver in which span over 40 years. When he wasn’t working, Ron loved to play golf, spending time with family, serving the church and watching sports. Ron and Opal were multi-decade members of Creekside Christian Church. 

A service to honor Ron’s life will be held at 10am, Friday, May 9, 2025; at Creekside Christian Church, 4938 Westerville Road, Columbus, 43231. A reception to share memories and fellowship will follow service until 1pm. Pastor Eric Fillinger will be officiating.The service will be live streamed through Facebook: //Facebook.com/creeksidecolumbus and YouTube: //YouTube.com/@CreeksideChristianColumbus.

The Newcomer Family is honored to serve the Gillenwater Family. To leave a memory or message of condolence, please visit the tribute section of the obituary page.