Ronald "Ron" Celli

December 28, 1956 – February 3, 2026

Ronald Celli, a beloved family member and friend to many, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at Strong Memorial Hospital after a difficult battle with cancer and other health challenges.  Born to the late Fred and Carol Celli, Ron lived a life defined by kindness and a tireless devotion to those he loved.

A Life of Achievement and Passion

Ron was a standout individual from a young age. He graduated from Irondequoit High School playing many sports and he had a long list of friends. Then on  to Alfred State College where he was a talented athlete and student.  From there he went on to study Architecture at the University of Cincinnati, in their famed Coop Program  which fostered his love of drawing, creativity and collaboration. 

For many years, he served as a valet at The Renaissance Apartments in Rochester, NY, assisting residents and guests with care. He was extremely well liked by everyone, often invited into their units for refreshments. 

An avid fan of Cleveland sports as is his brother Bob and sister Carla, Ron spent many seasons cheering on the Indians (Guardians), Browns, and Cavaliers.  He attended many games in person at all three venues in Cleveland and was a proud member of the Photo City Browns Backers Club in  Rochester. When he wasn't watching the game, he was often found at the grill—he loved to barbecue for those he held dear—or playing his guitar, sharing his love for music with everyone around him.

Strength and Resilience

Ron’s greatest strength was his quiet resilience. Though he faced his own personal struggles with depression, he met each day with courage that inspired those close to him. His ability to keep giving to others, even while navigating his own challenges, was a testament to his character and his enduring spirit. He had every right to complain but never did, not once. 

A Legacy of Selfless Care

To know Ron was to know a man who never put himself first. There was never a day that went by where Ron wasn't doing something for someone else. This spirit of service was most profoundly felt in the way he cared for his brother, Fred Jr., after Fred was stricken with a debilitating stroke.

Ron’s love for his neighbors and relatives was boundless. He shared a particularly deep and active bond with his sister, Carla and her family. Whether they were visiting new places, enjoying dinners and watching sports or celebrating special occasions, their time together was a cornerstone of his life. Not a day will go by where his family and friends will not deeply miss his love and companionship. 

Family

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Carol, and his brothers, Fred Jr. and Michael.

He is survived by his siblings, Robert (Debbie) and Carla (Doug), who will miss his strength, dedication and humor dearly. He was also a caring and supportive uncle and friend to Olivia and Michael Spinder, and a beloved presence in the lives of his extended family and friends. They described Ron as a helper, friend and great listener, often helping each other get through life. 

Celebration of Life

The family invites all who knew and loved Ron to join them in honoring his memory.

Service: Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery (Rochester, NY), 12:30 PM.

Reception: A gathering for family and friends will follow in Webster, NY. Final details regarding the reception location will be provided shortly.

In Ron’s memory, we ask that you perform an act of kindness for a neighbor today—just as Ron did every day of his life. Please also consider donations to the Wilmot Cancer Center, where he received care, the American Red Cross, to which he was a dedicated donor, or to the MDS (Myelodysplastic Syndromes) Foundation.