Ronald J. Kubala, 74, passed away on Saturday, January 8, 2022, at Lancaster General Hospital. He was the husband of Shirley (Hahn) Kubala, his high school sweetheart, with whom he shared fifty-two years of marriage on April 19, 2021. Born in Central City, PA, on May 22, 1947, he was the son of the late Nellie (Sobeck) and John J. Kubala Jr. He graduated from Lancaster Catholic High School in 1965, where he was a member of the golf and basketball teams. He and his wife were members of Sacred Heart Parish in Lancaster.
After graduation, he worked at RR Donnelley & Sons as a customer service representative for 46 years, retiring in December, 2011. He also served in the Army Reserve’s 377th Engineering Company for several years as a cook, ending his service commitment in the 99th field hospital unit for alert plan and activation. His passion for sports and helping youth were shown in the countless years he dedicated to coaching numerous basketball teams. Beginning right after graduation, he coached the boys youth teams at St. Mary’s Catholic Church for about 17 years, as well as serving on the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) Board as the Secretary-Treasurer for many years. His dedicated service and commitment to the CYO League was honored when the League named an award after him to be presented to a volunteer in the League who went above and beyond to help the program.
He switched to girls basketball when his daughters started to play and coached at Sacred Heart Catholic School for about 10 years, also serving on the CYO Board for the girls. Not ready to hang up the clipboard, he dedicated another 19 years of coaching girls’ basketball at Lancaster Catholic High School. Even after retiring from coaching, he could always be found in the stands supporting LCHS girls’ basketball teams. He was a positive role model that impacted so many people on and off the court, by pushing everyone to do their best and to work even harder.
In his free time, he loved to golf, being a member of Meadia Heights Golf Club for several years as well as a part of the Duffers Club, a private golf group in Lancaster that played every month. He played countless rounds of golf on many courses, never missing a chance to play the game with friends. A huge accomplishment in his golf career was hitting a hole-in-one. In addition, he played on several men’s softball teams over the years, sometimes on 3 different teams at once. Not only did he play and coach, he was certified as an umpire and a basketball referee as well. Guess he figured if he was going to argue with them he better know the rules – and we all know he loved to question the calls!
He was a devoted father and grandfather who dedicated his time to coaching his daughters through the years and as his family grew he attended as many events as he could for his grandchildren, rarely missing any sporting events, dance recitals or school concerts. He was extremely proud and supportive of not only his daughters but also his grandchildren.
He and his wife Shirley loved spending the month of February in Myrtle Beach, SC and did so for many years. For their 50th wedding anniversary, they traveled to London, England to celebrate this amazing milestone together.
Being an avid Green Bay Packers fan, he had the opportunity to attend multiple games at Lambeau Field, a dream come true for him. GoPackGo!
He was an extraordinary person, with the best smile, biggest heart and an amazing friend to many. He was the love of Shirley’s life and she is devastated by his passing. He will also be deeply missed by his family, friends, those he coached and all who knew him.
In addition to his wife Shirley, he is survived by his three daughters, Michelle, wife of Michael Wingenroth of Manheim, Leslie, wife of Ed Leed of Lancaster, and Kari, wife of Ryan Null of Strasburg; seven grandchildren: Brandon, Nathan and Alyssa Wingenroth, Kayla Kubala and Chase Leed, Grayson and Ryder Null; two step-grandchildren: Kayla Leed McEwen and Emily Leed; a sister: Carolyn, wife of Andre Fouchet, 2 nieces and a nephew. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother John M. Kubala III and his nephew John M. Kubala IV.
To end, a few of his favorite golf quotes:
“The most important shot in golf is the next one” – Ben Hogan
“Every day that you don’t practice is one more day longer before you achieve greatness” – Ben Hogan
“Golf is played by twenty million mature American men whose wives think they are out having fun” – Jim Bishop
Thank you to all the nurses, doctors and hospital staff for your wonderful care of our beloved husband, father and grandfather.
A public visitation will be held at DeBord Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory, 141 E. Orange St., Lancaster, PA on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 from 6:00-8:00pm. The interment will be private at Riverview Burial Park in Lancaster, PA.
Patricia Donnelly says
Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of this incredible man, in all of your lives. His legacy will live on within you all, forever.
Nicole (Spadea) Vasquez says
Sending so much love. Mr. Kubala was like a dad to me growing up. He always saw something in me and pushed me to be a better version of myself. I will never forget him or the lessons I learned about life, about the impact of playing on a team and about just how important it was to always show up for the people you love. Xoxo
Ted Myers says
We worked many years together and a few coaching in the early 80 ‘ s. Plenty of good times, only good times.
Peter Zanowski says
I am so sorry for your loss
Charlie Heisey says
Prayers for Shirley and the entire family. I got to enjoy many adventures playing basketball, softball (on 3 or 4 teams at a time), golfing and general “trouble causing.” Ron was a very special friend and I will miss him terribly. As I read the obituary, I was both laughing and crying at the same time — you guys captured it perfectly. Savor the memories — it will never be the same, but you’ve been blessed with him for all of these years.
Thomas Coxey says
A fun loving one of a kind man. He’ll be missed by many which is as good of a legacy as one can have.
Matt & Cheryl Heuston says
Condolences to all of Ron’s family.
We had the pleasure of meeting Ron during our visits from Australia. Ron was extremely welcoming to our family and his sense of humour we still remember to this day. Nothing but fond memories.
Rest In Peace
Frank and Janet Kubala says
our deepest sympathies to Shirley and all the family. We always had so much fun at the family reunions in Michigan and the cousins get togethers that we had for several years. He was such a fun loving person and will be sorely misssd by al. l Our goodbyes foe now to a wonderful cousin.
Patti & Mike Stephens says
Sending love and heartfelt sympathy to Shirley and the girls and families on the passing of Ronnie. We go way back with Sacred Heart & LCHS memories with our girls. When you were with Ronnie, life just seemed brighter, always a good laugh or two. We will miss him . Go and enjoy your eternal life now Ronnie. May all your memories of this great man be eternal.
Theresa Hockenberry says
Kari and family, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your father. He was an amazing man who I always respected and enjoyed talking with. I lost my dad a year and a half ago at 75 and I can imagine the pain and suffering you must be going through. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Peace and love and hugs to all of you❤️ Theresa (Rothan) Hockenberry
Dolores Biedenkapp says
Shirley & family. Deepest condolences on the loss of our dear Ron. Remembering our years of double dating and so many laughs. It is hard to believe he is gone.
My thoughts & prayers continue to be with you.
Love, Duddy Segro
Marilyn Zimmerman says
So sorry if your loss. I worked with him many years at Steelway.
Marilyn
Danna Snyder Feigenbaum says
Dear Kubala Family,
Praying for peace for all of you during this difficult time. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to spend so many wonderful times with Ron and the family in my childhood. Girls, your dad always made us laugh at all of the Donnelly events. He was so proud of all of you and it showed. Praying you are all flooded with the good memories during this difficult time.
God Bless,
Danna Snyder Feigenbaum
Laura (Crnkovich) Zoll says
Mr. Kubala was one of my favorite basketball coaches! He always saw something in me and pushed me! His presence throughout my four years at Catholic was greatly appreciated! I am very sad to hear of this loss, and I send my prayers and deepest condolences to the family.
Mary Jo Scheid says
The best of times the best of friends. Precious moments spent with the two of you right on through to where we, along with our girls, became family. Oh those golden memories.
Praying for you Shirley, Michelle, Leslie and Cari with all of our heart. Know that even though we can’t be with you on Tuesday you’re in our thoughts and we are beside you in spirit. Ron, we love you and will miss you. Bill has already hit a bucket of balls in your memory. Hope you’re letting them fly from Heaven., Kubala. Always and forever dear friend!
Much love, Mary Jo Scheid, Bill Scheid, Melissa Scheid Brown and Gina Scheid Deignan
Larry Jeremiah says
My deepest condolences and prayers going out to Ron’s family and friends. Ron will surely be missed, especially his funny jokes and great sense of humor.
Julie Heuston says
Condolences to all of Ronnie’s family.
My kids and I had the pleasure of spending time with Ronnie on our holidays to America from Australia.
He greeted us with a huge smile big hugs and welcoming words.
Ronnie was a very special man to many.
May he Rest In Peace.
Joan and Brian Heuston says
Our condolences to Shirley and family. We have many happy memories of Ronnie during our visits from Australia
Love from Joan and Brian Heuston
Deborah Thomas says
Shirley and family, I am so sorry to hear about Ron’s passing. I had the pleasure of working with him at RRD for several years before he retired. He had a great sense of humor and that always made the day interesting. A funny memory I have of Ron was when he put his cheese hat on at work because he was so proud of his Green Bay Packers that year. He truly was one of the “Greats” at RRD and I am glad that I had the honor to work with him. Rest in Heaven Ron, Deb Thomas
Pat Carpenter says
Shirley , Michele, Leslie and Kari.
John and I send our condolences and prayers to all of you. Great memories and wonderful times at Sacred Heart and Lancaster Catholic. He was one of a kind! Loved all his players. We are so very sorry for your loss.
Pat and John Carpenter
Anne Rudy-Smith says
I’m so sorry for your loss. Mr. Kubala was a great influence. He saw something in me that I didn’t even see in myself. He was a great man and a wonderful coach to play for. He will be missed in the LCHS community but I know he has the best seat in the house looking down from heaven.
Anne Rudy-Smith says
I’m so sorry for your loss. Mr. Kubala was a great influence. He saw something in me that I didn’t even see in myself. He was a great man and a wonderful coach to play for. He will be missed in the LCHS community but I know he has the best seat in the house looking down from heaven.
David & Gerry Heuston says
Thinking of all of Ron’s family at this very sad time.
It was was always great to see Ron & family when we visited from Australia.
Best wishes.
Karen Burger says
Dear Mrs.. Kubala, Michelle, Leslie and Kari,
I am so very sorry for your loss!! I always remember him fondly playing CYO and LCHS basketball! I learned so much from him! He left an amazing legacy!
Tom & Jane Burger says
Dear Shirley & Family,
Our deepest sympathy. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Tom & Jane Burger
Sara Myers Oakley says
I am deeply saddened to hear about Ronnie. I will always remember his larger than life personality, as well as the way he loved Shirley and the girls. He made the family reunions fun and he will be missed.
My condolences and love to everyone. Prayers for you all
Sherran Payne says
Shirley and family, please accept my heartfelt sympathies in the loss of your husband and father. Shirley, we lost touch over the years but I have never forgotten our early years of friendship. I know how much you and Ron were in love in high school. May all the beautiful memories of your time with Ron help you though this difficult time.
Sherran Gerz Payne
Mary Lynn Hobday DiPaolo says
I am shocked to read of Ron’s untimely passing. He is one of the most genuine persons I have ever known. He was always a jokester with a great smile.
Rest In Peace
Vicki Bischoff says
Shirley I am so very sorry for your loss. I remember Ron as a great fun loving guy. Brenda Stover sent me his obituary. I hope you are well and find strength in your memories to get through this difficult time. Your old pal from LGH..,,Vicki (Sides) Bischoff
Fran Lombardo Spangler says
To the Kubala family,
Carolyn and Andre, I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers for you and your entire family. I’ll light a candle in Ron’s memory at Mass.
Francesca Sobeck says
We are all so sorry for your great loss. He will surely be missed by so many. Our hearts go out to you during this difficult time.
Love,
Philip, Francesca, and Family
louis t. zangari says
So sorry for your loss. I worked with him at Steel Way.
Randy Garrett says
Ron was someone who always respected me as an official and I respected him as a coach. I enjoyed going to Lancaster Catholic because I knew I would get to interact with my friend. He will be missed. Blessings to the family.
Jennifer (Stumpf) Antes says
Mr. Kubala had such an impact on my life from just a few years coaching at Sacred Heart. He always saw such potential in us at an age where we were unable to see it in ourselves. The confidence and determination he instilled left a lifelong imprint on me. I am forever grateful for those years. I will never forget our Sacred Heart family, the suicide drills, the tournaments and my favorite drill, the Bob Casey. Thank you Mr Kubala for being such a positive influence. Your made a difference in my life, and I am forever thankful to you.
Much love to Mrs. Kubala, Michelle, Leslie and Kari.
Lisa (Wertz) Hardwig says
In my generation, if you still have the address and home phone number memorized of your best friend’s family growing up, it means that family was an influential family in your life. My heart goes out to you, my Kubala family. I will miss my best friend’s dad, my first coach, additional father figure, my supporter, my friend, and family member. Love you all! I am here for you.
Suzanne Webb Sehl says
Dear Shirley and Family, Deepest sympathy and blessings. You had the
greatest guy☆
Mike Webb was my brother.
john klessinger says
So sorry to hear about Ron, as we played basketball at st marys many years ago.
Carol Heltshe Mayer says
Dear Shirley,
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Carol and Tom Mayer
Jim and Mary Ann Mahler says
Dear Shirley and Family,
We are so very sorry for your loss. May all of your precious memories bring you comfort during this very difficult time. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
Jim and Mary Ann Caterbone Mahler
Anna Ramos says
Our deepest condolences to all! Mr. Kubala had a huge impact in this community and left it a little better of place because of it, what a great blessing. I pray for healing and comfort during this difficult time.
Freddy & Anna Ramos and Family
Charlie Broich, class of 65 says
Shirley and family
Sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our prayers.
Ron was a great guy.
Teresa Madonna says
Mrs K & girls & family.
Sending my sincere condolences of the sudden passing of Mr Kubala
There are no word’s to comfort you other then heaven has gained a beautiful Angel. You will all be in my thoughts & prayers during this difficult time.
Teresa Madonna
LCHS class of 79
Phil McCaskey says
Shirley, sincere condolences to you, and your family. I always thought the world of Ron. He was one of the best. Stay strong. Best, Phil and Mary Lou.
patti muldowney says
Shirley & Family
I am so sorry to hear about Ronnie I am praying for all of you. You had a wonderful family and a wonderful life together. I know you will miss him deeply but all the memories you had together makes your marriage so special.
I am here for you Shirley anytime you would want to talk. Losing a love one is never easy.
Dave Pugliese says
Ron was a great mentor to his athletes and colleagues. Most of all, he was a true family man!
ALAN SMITH says
MY HEART FELT CONDOLENCES WITH THE PASSING OF RON. KNEW HIM FROM HIGHSCHOOL, HAD FOND MEMORIES OF THE PICK UP BASKETBALL GAMES BEHIND YOUR HOME ON STATE ST. SOMETHING I DEARLY MISSED WHEN WE MOVEDFROM STATE ST TO NEW ENGLAND. HE WILL BE DEARLY MISSED.