With broken hearts and great joy in Christ Jesus, we announce the passing of Ron DeBarr, 67, after an extended illness. He was born to Wayne and Joanna DeBarr in Painesville, OH. Ron was a graduate of Kenmore Highschool and of Walsh University. He was a member of St. Paul's Catholic Church and a fourth degree Knight of Columbus.

The major part of his career was devoted to economic development, which he began as the Vice President of the Stark Development Board. By invitation, Ron then joined ASW's team to facilitate growth in the Akron/Canton area. Ron was then offered the position of President and CEO of NEOTEC (Northeast Ohio Trade and Economic Consortium), where he served for 17 years. While at NEOTEC he worked to establish International Trade Programs, formed a partnership with the Cleveland Port Authority, and became an Accredited Zone Specialist. After retiring, he went onto become a consultant for the Cleveland Port Authority.

Ron was preceded in death by his father, Wayne DeBarr, and Reverend and Mrs. Gay Tenney.

He is survived by his mother Joanna Knight, Margret Tenney-Revelett and siblings, Sandy Carpenter, Pam Buchanan, Elissa Goodman Basso, Charles V. Goodman Jr. and Dee Leister (Doug), his current wife of 40 years, Diane, brother in law, Charles Sepos (Claire), children Adam and Alexandra, three granddaughters, extended family, and dog, Zeus.

One of his favorite quotes was "And remember, my sentimental friend, that a heart is not judged by how much you love, but by how much you are loved by others."

Arrangements are being made by Arnold Funeral Home and a Mass will be held at 11am on Thursday June 24th at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 241 S Main St, North Canton, OH 44720.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Paul's Catholic Church in North Canton (https://www.stpaulncanton.org/) or Sancta Clara Monastery in Canton (http://www.poorclares.org/monastery).