Mr. Ronald L. Riccardo, 74, of Ellwood City passed away on Monday, November 4th, 2024 at the VA Hospital H.J. Heinz Campus.
Mr. Riccardo was born on September 22nd, 1950 in Ellwood City to the late Armond H. “Hardy” and Angeline (Labor) Riccardo. Ron graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Levittown, PA with the class of 1969. During his senior year of high school he started the high school work program at US Steel, Fairless Works and worked there for 45 years. After he retired Ron moved back to his beloved hometown of Ellwood City, PA.
After graduation Ron enlisted with the United States Army on January 27th, 1970 and served until his honorable discharge on January 22nd, 1976. He did a tour of duty in Vietnam in 1970-1971 as an infantry soldier in the 23rd Division, 195th Infantry, Chu Lai, Vietnam. His last duty was with Company B 1st Battalion 2nd Infantry and 1st infantry Division at Fort Riley, Kansas 5th U.S. Army. He had earned the rank of Specialist 4th Class, and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/60 DVC, Army Commendation Medal, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, and One Overseas Bar. Following his honorable discharge Ron joined the Army Reserves and served for 20 years and retired as a Staff Sergeant. Ron is a member of the Divine Grace Parish/ Holy Redeemer Church, Knights of Columbus, Veterans Honor Guard, and a life long member of the VFW. An outdoorsman, Ron was an avid hunter, fisherman, and a huge Pittsburgh Steelers fan. He also was a life long member of the NRA and a dedicated firearms enthusiast, gun collector and gun rights advocate.
He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law Allen and Irma Riccardo of Bristol, PA, along with several nieces and nephews.
Family and friends will be received on Tuesday, November 12th, 2024 at Divine Grace Parish, Holy Redeemer Church from 10:00 am until the time of the mass of Christian burial at 11:00 am with Father Jim Wehner officiating. Interment will be at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies. Members of the Veterans Honor Guard are asked to meet at the church on Tuesday by 11:45 am to conduct full military honors.
Memorial contributions in Ron’s name can be made to; Divine Grace Parish Social Services.
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