Ronald Duane Milburn

Ronald Duane Milburn, 74, passed away on December 12, 2025, due to complications from a liver transplant, known as graft-versus-host disease in OSU Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio.

Ron was born on November 10, 1951, in Dennison, Ohio, to the late Frank and Mildred (Pfeister) Milburn. He was the youngest of nine children in the Milburn family. Known as “Ronnie” to his family, he held fond memories of growing up in Buckeye Hollow in Uhrichsville. He graduated from Claymont High School, Class of 1971.

On June 28, 1971, Ron married the love of his life, Lynn (Peter) Milburn, in Longview, Texas. Together they shared 54 years of marriage built on love, hard work, and devotion to family.

Ron possessed a work ethic second to none. He began his career selling sweepers, later worked alongside his brother Jerry in the heating and cooling business, and then worked for Alsco in Gnadenhutten. In 1977, Ron and his wife Lynn built Ron’s Heating and Cooling in Dennison together, growing it from the ground up through years of dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to their customers. For 48 years, the business has been a cornerstone of the community, known for honesty, integrity, and exemplary customer service. Ron and Lynn took great pride in serving their customers, many of whom became lifelong friends. Ron’s legacy will continue through his loyal employees, granddaughter Jenna, and her husband Kyle, who will carry forward the values and standards established in those formative years.

Ron is survived by his loving family, including his wife, Lynn Milburn; two daughters, Ronda (Tom) Shetler of Uhrichsville and Rachelle (Kurt) Cottrell of Dennison; siblings Janet Butcher of Cumberland, Kay Cerana of Uhrichsville, and Jerry (Karen) Milburn of Uhrichsville; seven grandchildren, Jenna (Kyle) Warner, Tanner (Kylie) Shetler, Jordan (Maddie) Norris, Reid Shetler, Tyson Shetler, Rogan Shetler, and Braden Furbay; six great-grandchildren, Kylynn, Sawyer, Jameson, Tateum, Haevyn Warner, and Wrenley Shetler; his beloved dogs, Rocko, Roxie, and Razzle, who were constant companions and brought him great comfort and joy; and his three dedicated employees: Bill Varnes, Sam Reynolds, and Larry Fish.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Mildred Milburn; his parents-in-law, Walter “Bill” and Geraldine “Gerry” Peter; brothers Frankie, Bobby, Jim, and Charles Milburn; and sister Irene Hodkinson.

Beyond being a successful business owner, Ron was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He enjoyed coaching softball, served as president of Junior Miss Softball for the Twin Cities, and supported travel softball for many years. Above all, Ron leaves behind a lasting legacy of generosity and service to his community. In years past, he organized Christmas giveaways of bicycles, turkeys, and hams for families in need. In a final testament to his giving spirit, 250 hams were distributed to the community the day after his passing.

Ron will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, unwavering work ethic, and deep love for his family and community. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the example he set.

Friends may greet the family starting at 6:00 p.m. (an hour before) the Celebration of Life begins at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, in the First Presbyterian Church in Dennison with Carolyn Behrendt officiating. Memorial contributions in his memory may be made to the Presbyterian Church, PO Box 109, Dennison 44621.

Following Ron’s wishes his cremation was entrusted to Koch Funeral Home, Freeport, Ohio. Online condolences may be made on their website at www.kochfuneralhome.net