Ronald Milton Wantz

Ronald Milton Wantz, 86, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his loving family on June 18, 2026. Born on September 2, 1939 in Dayton OH. Ron is preceded in death by his father, Milton Leroy Wantz of Miamisburg OH and his mother, Clara Macy McPherson of Dunmore KY; as well as his loving and doting sisters Lenora Louise Baker (Jim) of Byrdstown, TN and Margaret Elaine Wantz of Dayton OH. 

While it is impossible to summarize a loving father, and affectionate grandfather in such few paragraphs, it can be said without a doubt that Ron lived a life of adventure, filled with excitement and love. As a 1958 graduate of Kiser High School in Dayton OH, Ron went on to train and win the Golden Gloves Boxing Championship title in 1958. Then, he proceeded to fulfill a dedicated 6 years of service as a Montgomery County Deputy Sheriff. 

Ronald Milton Wantz and Mary Alice Combs were married in 1972, and no one could view his life with her as anything but passionate and exciting. They shared immense adventures over the next 54 years of marriage. Together, they founded their company, Eclectic Company Inc. in 1973 and witnessed it thrive for over 30 years. 

Nothing could stem the excitement Ron loved to live his life with; he was an active member of the Montgomery County Republican Party and also obtained his commercial pilot certificate. He was a proud owner of a Cessna 210, which he flew all over North America. As a devoted business partner and family man, many exciting family memories were born in that aircraft. He enjoyed salmon fishing at his lakefront estate in Ludington MI. After retirement with his wife in 2005, he loved riding his Harley Davidson, touring all of the National Parks in the West. He frequently wintered in Florida with his wife, choosing to pick a new experience every day. 

Ron watched his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow up, build lives, and succeed in ways he was constantly proud of, an involved and devoted grandfather, often taking the place of a father to many of his grandchildren. Ron achieved many great things in his life. He lived a life so full of love, adventure, and warmth, he will be sorely missed by all those close to him. He was a fixture of steadiness in his household, always the man with a word of advice, wisdom to bestow, and a loving presence for any achievement. 

He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Mary Alice Wantz. His five children: Mary Heather Wantz, Elizabeth Elaine Gregory (David), Douglas Wantz (Pam), Tena Ledford (Chris), Lora Polsley (Brad). And his grandchildren: Mary Alice Wantz, Vincent Short, Nicholas Short, and a legacy of many additional grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

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