Ronald Lee Chappelear, 78, of Malta died on Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2012 at the Genesis Morrison House Hospice in Zanesville.

He was born on June 18, 1934 on the family farm of his parents, Jesse and Mary Drake Chappelear on the banks of Sunday Creek in Union Township, Morgan County.

Ronald attended Ringgold Elementary School where his father, Jesse, was the principal and a teacher. He graduated from Homer-Union High School in 1952, where he enjoyed participating in sports activities. After graduation he moved to Columbus, OH in search of job opportunities. He began working as a printer for Columbia Gas Company on October 20, 1952, and retired from the same company on July 1, 1991.

Ronald loved OSU football, Cincinnati Reds baseball, and played in amateur baseball leagues in Columbus. He married Naoma Williams on April 26,1958. To this union were born two children, Jon Chappelear and Rebecca Chappelear. Ronald, his wife and children lived in Columbus and later moved to Gahanna. He was preceded in death by Naoma on November 1, 1968.

In November 1993, Ronald married Barbara F. Nichols, whom he had dated while they were both students at Homer-Union High School, and returned to Morgan County. Until failing health prevented it, Ronald and Barbara traveled extensively and attended home basketball games at OSU with Ronald's sister, Charlene Chappelear.

He was preceded in death by Barbara on November 10, 2011. On February 26, 2012, Ronald was baptized, and on the same day became a member of Pisgah United Methodist Church of Union Township, Morgan County, near Burr Oak State Park.

Ronald is survived by his two children, Jon Chappelear and Rebecca Chappelear both of Gahanna. He is also survived by a step-son and caregiver, Brian McKee of McConnelsville. In addition, he is also survived by a brother, Raymond Chappelear; two sisters, Charlene Chappelear and Betty Kovach; a special niece, Mary Ellen Wright; a special nephew, Mike Chappelear; a special cousin, Carolyn Chappelear Thomas; and numerous other nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents; two wives; and siblings, Marjorie Wright, Margaret Mates, Winifred Davis, Robert Chappelear, Rosemary "Ruthie" Simmons, Richard Chappelear, Lois Chappelear, Sarah Burks, and Sandra Towles; and a special brother-in-law, Frank Wright.

It is requested that no flowers be sent, but rather that memorial contributions may be made to Pisgah United Methodist Church, c/o Sharon Williams, 3399 S. St. Rt. 78. Glouster, OH 45732, or to the charity of your choice.

Calling hours will be Sunday, Sept. 16, from 2-4 p.m. at the Miller-Huck Funeral Home in McConnelsville.

A private service of Christian Resurrection will be held at Pisgah United Methodist Church, with Pastor Phil Thomas officiating. Private burial will be in Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens in Columbus, beside his first wife, Naoma. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.miller-huck.com