Ronald R. Pace Sr., age 90, of Summit Township, died Sunday, August 30, 2026 at UPMC Hamot. Born in Erie on December 15, 1935, he was the son of Frank Pace and Dorothy Marko Pace. He was married to Shirley J. Ollarek Pace for 66 years until her death on March 14, 2023.
Ron lived life according to his own rules. Affectionately known as “Running Ronnie”, he involved himself in many activities. He had an early love of stock car racing and took great joy in racing go-karts with his kids and grandchildren. He drove his final laps a few weeks ago in a go-kart showcase. Other interests include golfing with his grandson Kody on a league at Fox Run, collecting tree nuts and planting them, metal detecting, watching truck pulls, cleaning out his woods, artistic sculpting, working at camp, and traveling to Florida for the winters as a snowbird. He was a patented inventor of the Snow Plow Caddy and the founder of Ron’s Rocks. Running Ronnie never slowed down and continued working every day at his son Bobby’s business, Armor-Fab.
While showing emotions was difficult for Ron, he fiercely loved his family and he showed his love through his many acts of service. He was extremely proud of his 6 children and everything they were able to accomplish.
Survivors include his children- Ronald Pace Jr. and Melody, Randy Pace and Bobbi, Gary Pace and Yvonne, Jayne (Pace) Rindfuss and Robert Jr., Mike Pace, and Robert Pace and Chrissy. Also, 16 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and more on the way; and brother Richard Pace of Tennessee, and sister Barbara Zdarko of Titusville.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Shirley, and grandson Corey Rindfuss.
Arrangements by Van Matre Funeral Home, Waterford. Condolences may be shared at www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com.
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Chuck Vorse says
September 1, 2026 at 2:11 pmPace Family.
I am proud to have known your father for years, primarily from racing days. Later, he always made my day when he stopped at Pepsi after work. After retirement, we drifted apart having different interests. Recently, we reconnected through Micheal efforts and met for dinner. However, the most fun time we had together recently was Hot Lapping with your father on his home-built Kart Race Track, a memory that I will always cherish. R,I,P my Friend
Noel Laskowski says
September 2, 2026 at 12:08 pmMy condolences to the entire family. Mr. Pace was one of my favorites! We shared so much laughter together! I will miss seeing him and our conversations!
Tina ( Jarrett ) Ohara says
September 2, 2026 at 7:20 pmMy thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family, especially Bobby.
May y’all find comfort in family and friends.
Ashley Colao says
September 2, 2026 at 8:43 pmOh my dear papa!!!! I have no words! Regulars become friends, friends become family and you guys became my family!!! I’m going to miss you Sunday Mornings!! You’ll never be forgotten by GC family!
timothy jarrett SR. says
September 3, 2026 at 9:04 amTo the family members I met through my kids and the entire family, my condolences, prayers and comfort in your time sorrow and celebration, from my family here and from Texas!
Dave & Linda Hess says
September 3, 2026 at 7:21 pmSo sorry for your loss. We’ve known your parents for many years and who raised a wonderful family!
Hugs and prayers to all.