Richard "Rick" Ronzano

(January 6, 1933 - November 5, 2010, Age 77)

Rick was a very active knight for decades until his back became too painful to sit for long periods (such as meetings). Rick was Grand Knight of Council 971 for the 1970-1971 Columbian Year and served as an officer in many positions within the council. Rick was also a Faithful Navigator for the 4th Degree Padre Palou Assembly #069 of the Knights and served in the Color Corps. He was also a District Deputy for 1987-1988. Rick frequently attended socials with his wife Vera who has been very active in the YLI (Young Ladies Institute).

Published Obituary from November 9, 2010

Richard Ronzano passed away suddenly on November 5, 2010. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Vera Ronzano, daughters, Shirley Hennessey, Catherine Earl, [husband Jay], Carol Tara, [husband John], and sons Chris Ronzano, [wife, Kristine], Steven Ronzano, Paul Ronzano, [wife, Elizabeth], Michael Ronzano, [wife, Susie],and Thomas Ronzano, [wife, Robin],15 grandchildren, his sister, Sally Covich, [her husband, Alec], 2 nieces, 2 nephews, and sister-in-law Geraldine Nedley. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Cecil and Bennie Ronzano.

Born in San Jose on January 6, 1933, Richard grew up in San Jose where he met his wife, Vera, at the Quid Novi Club. They married in 1959 and relocated to Santa Cruz in 1963, where they have remained. They raised their children in Santa Cruz, and ensured that they were guided by the Catholic faith. Richard was a devout Catholic, and was very active at Holy Cross Catholic Church and St Joseph's Catholic Church, being a part of prayer groups and serving as a Eucharistic Minister. Richard was a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, as well as District Deputy where he proudly served for more than 50 years.

Richard is well known in the community for his devotion to sports, with his own talent for fast pitch softball and coaching little league, wrestling and football. Richard spent 50 years as a fixture at DeLaveaga Park, playing himself, and as a supportive parent and umpire/referee. Richard will be remembered as a loyal husband, loving father, endearing grandfather, kind and patient brother, and a sincere, trustworthy, and kind human being. His love for food, reading, woodworking, gardening, socializing, and being with his family meant the most to him. He will be missed by his family, the community, and anyone that he came in contact with. His life touched many and there will not be a day that we are not reminded of him.