Ronald James Weiss, 69, beloved husband, father and Opa, passed away December 28, 2024, following a sudden battle with pancreatic cancer. Ron was born in 1955 to Ronald and Dorothy Weiss, in Queens, NY. He grew up in Bellmore, NY attending Mepham High School, class of 1974. In 1983 he purchased a home in St James, NY where he raised his family.

Ron worked for the Long Island Railroad for over thirty years. He was recognized for his knowledge of all aspects of construction. Friends and family would contact him regularly to solve problems, and brainstorm future projects.

During these years, he also ran his own home improvement business. He was known to all for his meticulous attention to detail.

Upon retiring in 2005, Ron fulfilled his lifelong dream of living fulltime in the Catskill Mountains. Initially living on property, he owned in Gilboa. Ron built a cabin that held wonderful family memories of enjoying the outdoors, and hunting with his Northwind friends.

After meeting his future wife, Marian, he moved to Walton. He joined her as a partner in Maplemoon Kennel, raising Golden Retrievers. Ron and Marian also shared a similar background in horticulture. Countless hours were spent creating an extensive ornamental garden on their property. An avid birdwatcher, he kept the feeders full and planted native varieties of shrubs for avian habitat.

Throughout this time Ron enjoyed traveling as much as possible. He had a passion for majestic scenery, viewing wildlife, and lively conversation with people he met along the way.

He was fortunate to see a great deal of the world after retirement, National Parks across the US, multiple trips to Costa Rica, and an African safari in Kenya. Of all of his travels, Alaska was the place closest to his heart. The vast frontier filled him with joy.

Ron is survived by his wife, Marian Hiemstra, his son Andrew (Catherine) Weiss, daughters Lauren Weiss, Rebecca (Nicholas) Patsos, and Larissa Hughes, five cherished grandchildren, Ava Weiss, Indy Hughes, Nico, Ellia, and Alden Patsos.

He also leaves behind his brother Robert (Maryann) Weiss, and family.

He was predeceased by his father Ronald (Marie), and mother Dorothy.

In keeping with Ron's wishes there will be no services. His family will celebrate his life and scatter his remains in the mountains at a later date.