Ronald J. Pitstick

Ronald James Pitstick, 86, of Aurora, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, March 15th, 2017. Ron was born in Aurora on October 28, 1930 to Frederick and Bessie Brophy Pitstick. He graduated from West Aurora High School and the American Academy of Art in Chicago, Illinois. He took his special talent and love of art and applied it to his career as he moved from salesman to vice president at Vogue Wright in Chicago and later moved on to become president of Business Arts and Photography Studio in Chicago where he remained until 1992. In 1992, he partnered with his son Brad to create R & B Studios where he worked until his retirement. It was during his retirement that he began caring for his grandsons (and a few neighborhood children who all adopted him as their grandpa as well) after school. He shared his love of history and military with them, regaling them with stories of his childhood during the Great Depression and how life was during World War II. As tough as his life was during that time, he never let that deter him from reaching for his goals for the future nor affect his attitude. Grandpa humbled them at many a game of chess and horse, often beating them using underhand swooshes that would blow their minds. They had the most artfully carved pumpkins every year and school projects done with an artist grandpa were a shared experience and a wonder to behold. Not one to rest on his laurels, Ron also started volunteering and later working at the Salvation Army as driver for the Golden Diners during the day where he went above and beyond simply delivering meals to forming relationships with those on his route. He worked with them for 10 ½ years until his recent official retirement. We have lost our family leader. Ron was a pillar of strength and mentor throughout our lives. He had a great sense of humor but could also put the fear of God in you with a glance. When it came to buying new vehicles, he was a seasoned negotiator. He provided his wife with a beautiful home to enjoy and a great childhood for his sons. For that we will always be grateful. He was a talented artist, loved his motors sports, and enjoyed puttering around the yard. Ron is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Marianne, his sons, Brian (Michelle) of Yorkville, IL, and Bradley (Nancy Behrends) of Aurora, IL, his grandsons, Jason of Batavia, IL, and Michael and Matthew Pitstick of Yorkville, IL. He is preceded in death by his father Frederick and his mother Bessie. Memorial gifts may be directed to The Salvation Army. Arrangements are being handled by the THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY, 220 North Lake Street, Aurora, IL 60506. (630) 631-5500. Please visit our interactive website at www.daleidenmortuary.com where you may sign the guest book or leave condolences for Ronald’s family.

Ronald J. Pitstick

October 28, 1930 - March 15, 2017