Ronald Irwin Diefenthaler

Ronald Irwin Diefenthaler, age 63, passed away peacefully at his home in Columbus, Ohio on February 3, 2024 surrounded by his family and loved ones after a valiant and lengthy battle with cancer.

Ron was born in Milwaukee, Wisc on May 28, 1960, raised in Toledo, Ohio. He was a graduate of the Ohio State University in 1983 with a bachelors in Turf Grass Management. Ron served for over 30 years in the golf course industry, including Past President of the Northwest Ohio Chapter of Golf Course Superintendent Association, as a Director in the Central Pennsylvania GCSA, and as a Turfgrass Management Instructor. 

Ron always said “Don’t feel sorry for me, we’re all just tourists on this planet. Everybody is going to have their day, I’m just leaving earlier than others. So go see the sights, meet interesting people and eat good food”. That’s how he wanted to live his life. And that’s how he did. 

Ron is survived by his 2 children, son Jacob Diefenthaler (Marisa), of Upper Arlington, Ohio and daughter Caleigh Diefenthaler/Middleton (Tadan) of Philadelphia, Pa along with his life partner, Susan Saladini of Middletown, Pa.

Ron was preceded in death by his wife Tracy Callahan/Diefenthaler in 2009 and parents Irwin and Phyllis Diefenthaler. 

Visitation will be held Thursday February 8, 2024 from 6-8pm and a Funeral Service will take place Friday February 9, 2024 at 10am at the Shaw-Davis Clintonville Chapel, 4341 North High Street Columbus, Ohio 43214.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ron’s name may be made to Senecaville United Methodist Church, 203 High Street, Senecaville, OH 43780.