Ronald Shawn "Ron" Wilkof, beloved husband, father, grandfather, businessman, friend and lifelong Stark County resident, passed away on September 26, at the age of 74.

Born September 28, 1950, in Canton, Ron was the former president and CEO of Wilkof Industrial Supply, a family business founded in the early 1900s, and Ron's Workingman's Store, which served Stark County's workforce for decades. Ron treated employees like family, customers like friends, and built lasting relationships across the community.

Ron was a true "mensch," a person of honor, integrity, and character. He led a life of servant leadership and philanthropy, with a legacy of community support that began with his parents Ervin and Marie and continued with his wife Ruthanne. Ron served on the Stark State College Foundation Board for more than 20 years, was a founding member of CAST (Caring and Serving Together), and served as President of the Board and member of the Golf Committee and other committees at Glenmoor Country Club. He was listed as an Honored Professional in Who's Who in Executives and Professionals. Ron was a founding member of the Men's Book Study, focused on spiritual reading.

Ron and wife Ruthanne have supported education, the arts and other organizations that benefit the community. Stark State College recognized the Wilkofs for providing access to education to students through scholarships and other support by naming the pedestrian bridge at Stark State's main and downtown campuses in their honor. Ron was honored by Habitat for Humanity with a home built in his honor in December, 2023.

Ron was a proud graduate of Canton McKinley High School and the University of New Mexico. He was a member of the Bulldogs football team and carried his love for the game and his Bulldog pride throughout his life. He was an avid golfer, winning many championships and tournaments, loved to dance and spend time with his wife Ruthanne and their many friends. He was known for his epic generosity, great sense of humor, and devotion to his friends, including several from childhood.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 26 years, Ruthanne, his children Tyler and Brittany (Chris) Butts, grandchildren Nora and Nash, sister JoAnne Ensley, extended family, many friends and his furry children Zoey and Zara. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ervin and Marie Wilkof, and sister Vicki Shinoda.

Ron's life was a testament to family, faith, hard work and generosity. His kindness, devotion, and leadership will live on in the lives he touched.

A celebration of Ron's life will be held at North Canton Chapel on Monday, October 6 at 1 p.m., with Officiant Mike Savage. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ron and Ruthanne Wilkof Scholarship Fund, Stark State College Foundation, 6200 Frank Ave. N.W., North Canton, Ohio 44720