Ronald “Ronnie” Venable, 67, of Columbus, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, June 25, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family after a courageous health battle.
Born on November 11, 1958, in Greensburg, Indiana, Ronnie was the son of Janet (Pittman) Venable and the late Andy Russell Venable. He grew up in the area, graduating from Hauser High School in Hope, Indiana. Ronnie was a naturally talented technician, bringing his sharp skills as an electrician and HVAC specialist to his work at Dorel Juvenile Group (formerly Cosco), Dolly Madison, and most recently at Honda.
But to know Ronnie was to know a man who lived life in full color. He was an absolute social butterfly who genuinely loved people. Incredibly positive and exceptionally thoughtful, Ronnie was a master gift-giver who delighted in making others feel special. He cherished his mother and father deeply. He possessed the kind of rare, brilliant smile that could instantly light up any room he walked into.
Music flowed through Ronnie’s veins. He was exceptionally gifted, sharing his heart as a vocalist, guitar player, and keyboardist. Whether he was playing Gospel, Rock, or Country, or sharing a song he had written himself, Ronnie used music to connect with everyone around him.
When he wasn’t playing music, Ronnie loved being outdoors. He was an avid golfer, and some of his happiest days were spent on the greens playing alongside his dad. He loved casting a line while fishing, but his ultimate happy place was the beach—especially Myrtle Beach. He and Denise recently bought an RV, dreaming of open roads, new adventures, and making memories together.
Just this past Tuesday, Ronnie married his beloved Denise. Though their time as husband and wife was short, their bond spanned years. Denise was his rock, tenderly and lovingly caring for Ronnie throughout his recent illness. She was the love of his life.
Ronnie’s beautiful spirit lives on in the hearts of those he loved so fiercely. He is survived by his wife, Denise Harris; his mother, Janet Venable; his siblings, Randy (Jill) Venable, Diane (Darwin) Gates, and Susan (Eric) Wallace; his stepchildren, Charles Brock (Carrie) Harris and Lindsay Harris; and his two adored grandchildren. He also leaves behind his parents-in-law, Linda and Robert Meadows, and his sisters-in-law, Judy (O.J.) Thayer and Paula McNealy; brother-in-law, David Clouse.
Ronnie has been reunited with his father, Andy Russell Venable, and his sister-in-law Tammy Clouse, who preceded him in death.
Ronnie’s Life Celebration® Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Jewell – Rittman Funeral Service & Crematory, 3855 25th Street, Columbus. A private family funeral service will be observed. Entombment will take place at the Garland Brook Cemetery Mausoleum. Visit www.JewellRittman.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.
I love you so very much my sweetheart. You were the strongest man I knew . You endured so much this past year. God saw your struggles , knew your pain and knew His paradise was what you needed. You loved me and life as fiercely as you possibly could. Your pups , Gidget and Jinxy were so happy to see you come through the door. I’m glad God gave me you to love at the end chapter of the life you so endlessly fought to live. Your pain is over and paradise begins, until we are reunited, my love for you lives on forever . Rest easy sweet Ronnie ❤️❤️🩹❤️
