Ronald Dean Black of Greeley, formerly of Johnstown and Centralia, Illinois, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, peacefully departed this world on September 13, 2026, at the age of 78.

Born December 22, 1947, in Graville, Illinois, Ron was the cherished son of the late Lester William and Dora Mae (Gaither) Black. Ron, his parents and three brothers moved from Grayville to Irvington, Illinois, in 1955, creating many great memories in that small town.

Ron was a proud graduate of Centralia High School, class of 1965. During his high school years, he was an all-star pitcher, helping lead his baseball team to the State Tournament. His pitching prowess achievements earned him a place in the CHS Sports Hall of Fame in 2008. His passion for sports continued throughout his life, as he remained an avid golfer and a dedicated fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. Ron also enjoyed playing slo-pitch softball and also played baseball for the Centralia Merchants, sharing his love of the game with many.

His career began at the Murray Children’s Center in Centralia, where he worked for several years before venturing to Colorado. There, he became the manager of a paint and drywall company and eventually co-owned his own business in Loveland. In the early 2000s, Ron retired and returned to Centralia, where he briefly drove for South Central Transit. Ultimately, he and his wife, Cindy, found their way back to Colorado to be close to their beloved children.

Ron and Cindy celebrated their union on May 14, 1998, in Loveland, marking the beginning of a beautiful life together.

He shared a love of antiques with his father, a passion that brought him much joy throughout his life.

Survivors include his wife, Cindy; his children, Jerry (Jodi) Black of Johnstown, Jason (Valerie) Black of Greeley, Jessica (Joe) Kage of Johnstown and Braileigh (Shaun) Hollis of Golden. He was a proud grandfather to six wonderful grandchildren: Adrienne, Jacob, Madison, Nico, Rylan and Gabby. He is also survived by his brothers, Kennie (Barbara) Black of Centralia and Randy (Pamela) Black of Richview, Illinois.

Ron was preceded in death by his father, Lester Black; his mother, Dora Mae Cohlmeyer; and his dear brother, Larry Black.

Ronald Dean Black’s life was a tapestry woven with love, dedication and the joy of sharing his passions with those around him. His memory will live forever and cherished by those who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to “Bloom Hospice” and sent to Young’s Funeral Service, 102 E. Charlotte Street, Johnstown, CO 80534.

Ron’s Life Celebration will be held at 10:30 a.m. October 6 at the Johnstown United Methodist Church with a reception to follow. Memories may be shared at youngsfunerals. com. To view the service: https://youtube.com/live/CNF blwmETJY.