RONALD JOHN PUCCI

It is with sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Ron Pucci at his home on February 23, 2023 at the age of 76.

Ron is survived by his stepdaughter Jennifer Lindgren (husband David and son Jackson); his stepson Christopher Davin (wife Jenny and daughters Avery and Azalea); his sister Gwen Buccini; as well as many family members and friends.  Ron was predeceased by his wife, Shirley, in 2022; brother Wayne Pucci in 2020; and parents, Margery & John Pucci.

Ron grew up near the Broadway Optimist Community Club in the downtown area of Winnipeg.  He attended St. Mary’s School, St. Paul’s High School and Churchill High School.  Ron benefitted from the athletic skills that were passed down to him through his father John, who was a very accomplished baseball player in his day.  Ron was a gruelling competitor as an offensive guard for Churchill High School’s football team.  He helped the Bulldogs win their first provincial high school football championship and was a member of the dynasty football team that went undefeated for three consecutive seasons.  The team’s astonishing 32-0 record earned Ron and the Bulldogs a spot in the Manitoba High School Football Hall of Fame in 2016, a ceremony which Ron attended as an inductee.  Ron constantly spoke of the lifelong lessons taught to him by legendary high school football coach John Puchniak, which Ron applied both on and off the field: “Hard work leads to success and there ain’t no shortcut!”

Ron was a natural-born salesman.  He successfully led his sales team for Sharp Electronics as the Western Regional Sales Manager.  His charisma and ability to build strong business relationships earned Ron several incentive trips with Sharp.  His sales accomplishments allowed Ron and Shirley to experience different parts of the world from Hawaii to Scotland.

In 2000, Ron found that he wasn’t quite ready to retire and decided to pursue “hobby” work as an MTS installer.  Although he enjoyed the casual, flexible work environment, his hunger to return to business led Ron to the industrial sector, working for Scott Screen and then Centennial Wire Products.  Both companies quickly reached new heights through revenue growth under his leadership as Sales Director.

Ron made many friendships through the “hockey Dad” circle, following Chris to various hockey rinks across Canada and the U.S.  Some of Ron’s favourite moments were spent in coffee shops chatting with other hockey parents.  Thousand of kilometres were logged during those years and a lot of great life advice was shared on trips to and from the rink.

Ron’s enjoyment for watching sports didn’t end with Chris’ hockey career. Later in life, he loved driving to various sporting complexes to support both Adriana and Romeo in their athletic pursuits.  Ron got a kick out of seeing their faces light up knowing he was in the crowd to cheer them on. 

Ron and Shirley loved “lake life”, spending decades at their beautiful cabin retreat overlooking Star Lake in the south Whiteshell.  Many family and friends have fond memories of being welcomed to the cabin over the decades and activities such as boating, swimming off the dock, engaging dinner time conversations or card games were sure to brighten Ron’s spirits.  Ron spent many hot summer days helping Jennifer and Christopher learn to waterski, pulling them around the lake on endless trips always with a smile on his face and words of encouragement.

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At day’s end, you could often find Ron sitting on the deck beside Shirley in their wooden Adirondack chairs, enjoying the evening sunset over still waters or enjoying an evening fire in their patio swing chair together.

Ron worked tirelessly, year after year, to upgrade the cabin and appreciated the generous support he received from family and friends, who were always there to lend a helping hand.  No renovation was too big for Ron and his crew to handle, (as Tom, Gary and Wayne can attest to).  Through decades of hard work, the cabin renovations created the relaxing haven that Ron always envisioned, allowing him and Shirley to eventually realize their dream retirement, by living at the lake during spring, summer and fall months.

Star Lake offered many amazing days on the fishing boat, as Ron and friends tried to land their next picture-worthy pickerel or small mouth bass.  Ron loved to host “the boys” out on the lake enjoying the sunshine, Cuban cigars and sharing old stories (even if they were embellished a bit).

Fishing and golf were undoubtedly Ron’s favourite hobbies.  He had hundreds of memorable golf rounds over the years at Falcon Lake Golf Course with many family and friends.  Ron never stopped “tinkering” with his game, all in an effort to gain a few more yards off the tee or make a few more putts on the greens.  There’s no question that Ron’s Uncle Vic influenced Ron to keep looking for an edge to shave a few strokes off his game.  No matter how the round was going, Ron would always try to finish on a high note, taking a few moments on the 18th tee to whisper to himself, “Come on Pucci, let’s hit a good one here”.

Ron’s character was truly tested when his treasured Shirley was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.  No one can prepare themselves for how difficult and challenging it is to support an Alzheimer’s patient.  Ron’s dedication, perseverance and patience was admirable as he cared for Shirley during the last chapter of her life. Even while facing life’s challenges, Ron found time to dedicate as a volunteer driver for “Meals on Wheels” with Shirley by his side.

Ron made a significant impact on those who had the privilege of spending time together.  This was demonstrated by his vast social network of close friendships which spanned decades.  He was never short of a good story or piece of advice. Anyone who was fortunate to garner advice from Ron or share a special moment, will forever cherish those memories and undoubtably reminisce about the good times with Ron.  

In Accordance with Ron’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private celebration of Ron’s memorable life is forthcoming.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in Ronald’s memory to the Manitoba Heart and Stroke Foundation to donate in memory of his generous, giving spirit.

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Ron’s family kindly requests that all his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by watching the photo-biography above. Please, also consider sharing your own photos, memories, and stories by making use of the comment section on this page.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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