Final Salute

AFTON – Ronald Alfred Zablocki, 84, passed away on Jan. 11, 2023, in the comfort of his home.
He was born on Oct. 27, 1938, in Detroit, Michigan, son of the late Stella and Edward Zablocki.
After graduating from high school, Ron joined the Navy and served as a Seabee, primarily in Barbados, and then in the Reserves.
He met the love of his life, Irene Tobey, on a blind double date. They were married on Halloween of 1959 and went on to have three children, Karen, Theresa and Michael.
Ron worked at Scintilla/Bendix/Amphenol as a machinist for more than 40 years.
He also used his expertise as a volunteer firefighter to teach many fire and safety classes there. His knowledge from working as a Seabee carried over to extra time working at Briggs Lumber Co. in Afton.
Ron’s interests included spending time with family, traveling, doing puzzles and woodworking. He and Irene started every day with exactly two games of Skip-Bo. Ron and Irene were known for their walks together, always hand in hand. He loved hunting and trapping with his trusty beagle, Chops, at his side.
Ron was a pillar in the community, and dedicated 45 years and thousands of volunteer hours with the fire department and ambulance squad. It was Ron who designed and implemented the Afton Fire Number System. He was awarded the Fireman of the Year in 1978.
Ron is survived by his daughter, Theresa of Norfolk, Virginia; granddaughters, Mary Richards of Williamsburg, Virginia and Laura Richards of Norfolk, Virginia; and a number of nieces and nephews. He is also survived by brothers, James (wife, Elaine) of Afton and Jerry, (wife, Cathy) of Michigan; and sister-in-law, Janice of Michigan.
Ron was predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Irene; children, Karen and Michael; and brother, Richard.
Friends and family are welcome to celebrate Ron’s life from 4 to 6 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 17, at C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, 21 Main St. Sidney.
Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery, Afton, in the spring.
Memorial donations may be made to the Afton Free Library, or Afton Glenwood Cemetery Association.
Arrangements are under the direction of C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, Sidney.
Share condolences and memories online at www.landersfh.com.