Ronald A. Pistner

Ronald A. Pistner, 87, of 767 Whitetail Road, St. Marys, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

He was born September 1, 1938, in St. Marys, son of the late Alvin and Esther Meyer Pistner.  Ron was a lifelong resident of the area and a graduate of Central Catholic High School, Class of 1957.  Ron was a veteran of the United States Army Reserve and for fifty years, was a proud co-owner alongside of his brothers at Pistner Brothers.  His strong work ethic, dedication, and integrity earned him the respect of colleagues, customers, and friends.  He believed in doing things the right way and approached every day with a positive attitude and a great sense of humor that could lighten any room.

On May 19, 1962, in Queen of the World Church, Ron married the late Doris Young, who preceded him in death December 6, 2003.

He is survived by his loving sons, Michael Pistner (Tina) and Douglas Pistner (Sherri) both of St. Marys; six grandchildren: Jacob (Hope), Aaron (Nicole), Ronald Jr. (Kelsea), Jason, Olivia (Jake), and Isabella (Chase); four great-grandchildren: Everleigh, Ira, Brianna, and Aspyn; a daughter-in-law, Loretta Pistner of St. Marys; a sister, Joan Emmert of St. Marys; brothers, David Pistner (Nancy) and Alvin Pistner (Shirley), both of St. Marys; his friend, Carol Ann Eckert of Emporium; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife and parents, Ron was preceded in death by a son, Rodney Pistner on December 2, 2019; and three brothers: Kenneth, Leroy, and Robert.

Ron was a genuine and kind man whose life was defined by hard work, a deep love for the outdoors, his faith, and his family.  He found joy in simple pleasures-tending his garden, spending time on the golf course, casting a line while fishing, and being surrounded by nature whenever possible. Above all, Ron was a friend to anyone who met him.  His kindness was genuine and his presence comforting.  He leaves behind a legacy of honesty, generosity, and friendship that will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church, 337 Center Street, St. Marys, PA 15857, Monday, February 2, 2026 at 10:00AM with Rev. Thomas Curry, O.S.B., celebrating.  Full military honors will be accorded by the St. Marys Servicemen’s Burial Detail. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

Ron’s family will greet friends and family from 9:15AM until 9:45AM on Monday, February 2, 2026 at the Maurus Street entrance to Sacred Heart Church.

Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to Penn Highlands Community Nurses Hospice, 757 Johnsonburg Road, Suite 200, St. Marys, PA 15857 or American Heart Association, PO Box 15120, Chicago, IL 60693.