Ronald G. "Ron" Lee

Ronald G. "Ron" Lee, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and artist, passed away on January 7, 2026, in Dayton, Ohio, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 17, 1937, in Dayton, Ohio, to the late Ronald Lee, Sr. and Barbara Palkovacs Lee.

Throughout his illustrious career, Ron embodied creativity and dedication. His professional journey began as an illustrator at NCR, followed by a prominent role as a Creative Art Director with Dow Chemical. He further honed his skills as an illustrator and Creative Director with E.F. McDonald before establishing his own company, Ron Lee Creative Services. An accomplished artist, he also engaged in restoration work for the Dayton Art Institute. His passion for art extended to education, where he inspired students by teaching art at the University of Dayton and Beavercreek High School. Later in life, he continued to share his artistic talents through private art classes at the Win Gallery and at the Beavercreek Senior Center.

Ron was a proud member of the United States Air Force and the United States Army National Guard, reflecting his commitment to service. In addition to his military background, he was a vibrant member of St. Luke Catholic Church and the Dayton Glider Society. In his youth, he distinguished himself as a Golden Glove Boxer and maintained an active lifestyle that included fishing, hiking, camping, hunting, and boating. A true outdoorsman, he was also a dedicated Scuba Diver and a member of the Rescue Divers Box 21.

Ron’s artistic talents were complemented by his love for mixed media, particularly in Southwest Art. He was witty with a loving demeanor, cherished by all who knew him. His family, including his beloved wife, Wanda Wist-Lee, children Rhonda (Mike) Witt, Ronald (Shelli) Lee, Rachelle Lee, Robin (Sharon) Lee, and Roberta Lee, as well as step-children Julie Wist, Christine (Ted) Vanlandeghem, and Ed Wist, will forever remember him for his intelligence, humor, and profound love. He was also the proud grandfather of Wesley, Brent, Grant, Julia, Candice, Kyle, Nola, and Mason, step-grandchildren Amanda, Megan, Ashley, Sarah, Levi, Joe, Andrew, Elba, Casmier, and Edith, and great-grandchildren Windsor, Wyler, Eleanor, Payton, Maddison, Mason, Luca, Elisa, Alessio, Nate, and Aiden, along with step great-grandchildren Ella, Sophia, Nora, Tyler, and Allison.

Ron is also survived by his brothers, Richard (Kay) Lee and David (Terrie) Lee, who will fondly remember their sibling's artistic spirit and adventurous life.

As a dedicated family man and talented artist, Ron’s legacy will continue to thrive in the memories of his family and friends. He will be deeply missed yet affectionately remembered for his contributions to art, education, and the lives of those he touched.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, at St. Luke Catholic Church, 1440 N. Fairfield Rd., Beavercreek, Ohio, with a Memorial Mass following beginning at 11:00 AM. Placement of his urn will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Dayton.

Donations may be made in his memory to the Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park North, Dayton, OH 45405–4700.

To share a memory of Ron with his family or to leave a special message, please visit the Guestbook below.