Ronald K. Giesler

Ronald K. Giesler, 79, of Graytown, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, October 28, 2024 surrounded by family and his hospice nurse nearby. Ron was born on February 9, 1945 in Toledo, Ohio to Kenneth E. and Frances (Schling) Giesler.

He graduated from Harris-Elmore High School in 1963. He played football, basketball and ran track, but he particularly enjoyed the time that he spent in Vo-Ag with his teacher, Burl Barker. After graduation, he continued the family tradition and worked as a farmer on the Giesler homestead outside of Elmore. Later in life, he worked at Brush-Wellman, now known as Materion, retiring in 2006. Ron loved to spend time with his sons, and was a Boy Scout Leader and a youth baseball coach. He faithfully attended all of the boys’ sporting events through the years.

Ron was a member of Trinity United Church of Christ in Elliston. He was instrumental in establishing several programs at the church including “Holy Hot Dog” nights, a Tuesday morning coffee group, a card club for seniors, and more. During the years, he served as a trustee as well as church council president.

Ron is survived by his wife, Kathleen (Luebke), whom he married on April 9, 1986; sons, Jeff (Lucy) Giesler of Perrysburg, OH and Mike (Marcia) Giesler of Greensboro, GA; step-daughter, Melissa Mauder of Dayton, OH; grandchildren, Ashley (Nick) Zimmerman, Erica Mauder, Jordan (Mark) Konieczny, Luke (fiancé Stephanie), Nick, and Abbey Giesler; great-grandchildren, Kolton, Maci, Jamison, and Krew Zimmerman; and sister, Diane Lohr.

During his recent illness, Ron had much time to reflect upon his life. He often mentioned that his legacy was, first and foremost, his children and grandchildren. Along with his sons, he felt truly privileged to have had the opportunity to raise his granddaughters, Ashley and Erica. Life was never boring.

He was very proud to have been a great support to his wife, Kathleen. Although he began as a reluctant campaigner, a highlight of his life was working tirelessly toward her ultimate election as an Ottawa County Judge and providing her with encouragement throughout her career.

His final months were spent in a recliner looking out over the property that he and his wife nurtured over the past 30-plus years. His view of trees, water, deer, eagles, herons, and more gave him much solace.

Visitation will be on Friday, November 1, 2024, from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Crosser & Priesman Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Elmore-Genoa Chapel and again on Saturday from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Trinity United Church of Christ, Elliston. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 2, 2024 at the church with Pastor Ryan Shields officiating. A luncheon will follow. Burial will be in Harris- Elmore Union Cemetery and be handled privately by the family at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Trinity United Church of Christ or to the Ottawa County Family Advocacy Center, Port Clinton, Ohio. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.crosserpriesmanfuneralhome.com.