Ronald Howard Gabucci's Obituary
Ronald Howard Gabucci, a loving husband, father, and papa, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at his home in Longview, Texas, at the age of 78.
Ron was born on January 7, 1947 in Greenville, Mississippi to parents Dannie and Christine Gabucci. Though some of his childhood would be spent there, the family would later move up to the Chicago area. Ron attended and graduated from Proviso West High School (Hillside, IL) in 1965. After graduation, Ron enlisted in the United States Air Force where he would go on to serve around the world before being honorably discharged in May of 1969. While in the Air Force, Ron was introduced to a pen pal name Judy Pelz…and the rest, as they say, is history! Ron and Judy would go on to be married in November of 1970, start a family in 1971, and be life-long partners until Judy’s passing in December of 2024. True to their love story, these past short ten weeks between their passing would be the longest they’d ever spend apart.
Ron was the definition of a hard worker and provider. After moving his family to East Texas, many years were spent in the tire business where he ran a few tire stores in the area. Following that, he spent many years as an over-the-road truck driver loving his travels across America. When Ron wasn’t on the road, he spent his time with family. Whether it was grilling burgers, steaks, or Italian sausages for dinner or just ordering pizzas on weekends home, he enjoyed having the kids and Judy around the table for a meal together. Another one of Ron’s passions with Judy was cruising the oceans and seas of the world! They took countless trips together Many memories and friends were made on those cruises taken around the world.
In his retirement, Ron enjoyed spending time with wife Judy. He enjoyed visits from his children and grandchildren; bingo with his online community; numerous Chicago Blackhawks and Dallas Stars hockey games; and texting with his kids about life updates to which he would always, in his own style, reply with a “thumbs up.”
Ron is survived by his children, Steven Gabucci of Longview, TX; Daniel Gabucci of Greenwood, LA; Sarah Jennings and husband Bill of Longview, TX; Peter Gabucci and wife Krisha of Clarence, NY; and Rachel Gabucci of Longview, TX; beloved grandchildren Taylor Gabucci, Carter Gabucci, and Amelia Jennings; sister Joyce Jackson and husband Mike; sisters-in-law Laura Paycer and husband Al, and Dottie Skierkiewicz and husband Al; as well as numerous beloved nieces, nephews, and their children. Ron was preceded in death by his wife Judy; parents Dannie and Christine Gabucci; brother Robert; sister Janice and sister Dianne Gabucci.
The family will welcome friends this Saturday, February 22, 2025 at 1:00 PM for a come and go time of fellowship, stories, and remembering Ron. Wear your favorite hockey apparel if you have it! The address for the event is 1324 Evergreen St. Longview, Tx.
*The family asks that no flowers be sent. Please make donations to your favorite medical charity in Ron’s name.
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