Ronald J. Stirpe

Ronald J. Stirpe, 81, of Tampa, FL passed away on October 29, 2022.  Ron was born on April 25, 1941 to Remo and Louise Shorac Stirpe in Steubenville, OH. Ron met Shirlee Gallo when he was a young child, and after admiring her from afar for many years, they wed in 1968.  Ron and Shirlee had three daughters whom they loved dearly. 

After graduating from Steubenville Catholic Central High School in 1959, he attended Xavier University to play football.  Ron returned to Steubenville and landed a job in the steel mill, but later began a career in the automobile industry selling Volkswagens.  After many years at Sunset VW, he relocated his young family to Tampa, searching for better opportunities.  He was determined to provide for his family and give them the life he felt they deserved. He worked at Reeves Import Motorcars in Tampa for many years, developing relationships with countless repeat customers until he retired in 2002. 

Ron never knew a stranger. He was kind, generous, and his charming personality always made others feel comfortable.  He was an avid fisherman in his younger years and shared his love of fishing with his wife and daughters both in Ohio and in Florida.  He was also a skilled golfer and enjoyed the opportunity to golf year round after moving to Florida. 

His family meant more to him than anything else in the world, something he often mentioned. He was unendingly proud of Renee, Laura, and Lisa and always tried his best to support them.  Anyone who knew Ron knew that he was the most loving father, husband, son and brother a family could ask for. Ron was predeceased by his beloved wife Shirlee, his loving parents, and his dear siblings Remo “Sonny” Stirpe, George Stirpe and Mary Louise “Blondie” Sabol whom he missed terribly after their passings. 

He is survived by daughters Renee (Jorge) Rodriguez, Laura (JR) Conley, and Lisa (Briggs) Cain.  Ron adored his grandchildren Ronnylin Bradley, Michael Tost, Micah Roscoe, and Nathan McCoole, and his sweet great-grandchildren Evah and Colton.

There will be a small graveside memorial service for the family and close friends on Saturday, November 26, 2022 at the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Tampa, FL. 

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