Ronald Heitman

Ronald Heitman age 79, of South Euclid. Passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday April 18, 2020. Loving husband of 36 years to Leanne “Lee” (nee McNulty). Devoted father of Matthew, Jennifer (husband Zoltan), Eric, and Mickey (wife Halli). Ronnie was preceded in death by his father, George, and mother, Alice. Cherished grandfather of seven. Dear brother of Kenneth and the late Wallace, and Richard.

Ronnie was born on September 4, 1940 in Cleveland, Ohio. He graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1958, and began his career in the automobile industry. On May 12, 1984, he married the love of his life, Leanne McNulty. Ronnie was passionate about all facets of the car business. He owned Washington and Lee Service until his retirement in 2005. He was co-owner and showman of Cleveland Rod and Custom Auto-Rama for 48 years. A car enthusiast, Ronnie built many unique custom cars, and raced vintage sprint cars. He worked tirelessly for Petersen Publishing, coordinating events for Car Craft, Hot Rod, and Rod and Custom. Ronnie will always be famous for his ingenuity in building the original Euclid Beach Rocket’s into vehicles, that now carry people in parades and throughout the streets of Cleveland. He appeared in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade for 10 years. The Rockets brought him his greatest joy, as they stoke nostalgia and bring delight to all. Ronnie will be forever being part of the fabric of Cleveland.

A PRIVATE Family Funeral Service will be held Friday April 24, 2020 at the Funeral Home. Friends who wish to join the family in procession to All Souls Cemetery may gather in the Funeral Home parking lot at 9:45A.M. (Custom Vehicles are Welcome). Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Ronnie (RESPECTING SOCIAL DISTANCING) at DEJOHN – FLYNN – MYLOTT FUNERAL HOME OF WILLOUGHBY HILLS, 28890 CHARDON ROAD (between Bishop Rd. and Rt. 91) Thursday April 23, 2020 from 3-6 P.M.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Ronnie’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Lakota Indian Children’s Foundation.

ARRANGEMENTS BY LOPRESTI FUNERAL HOME. (440) 473-6299 www.loprestifuneralhome.com