Ronald John Cataland
March 8, 1932 — October 15, 2017
Loyal and devoted public servant and son Ronald John Cataland, age 85, pioneering educator, U.S. Naval petty officer, 44th Attack Squadron born March 8, 1932, fell asleep to the Lord October 15, 2017 surrounded by his family in Tallahassee, Florida. A native of Youngstown , Ohio, he will always be remembered for his athleticism, boundless energy and dedication to his family and friends.
He was a graduate of East High School , Class of 1950, and attended Youngstown College graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Education. He taught languages in the Trumbull County Schools before entering the U. S. Navy and upon discharge from the Navy he went back to Youngstown University and received his elementary and junior high teaching certificate. He then taught in the Austintown public school system until his retirement.
He spoke six languages fluently and enjoyed traveling throughout Europe, spending most of his time in Italy and Greece.
Mr. Cataland was preceded in death by his parents James and Stella Cataland and his brother James A. Cataland . He is survived by his sister Helen Cataland Cox , his nephew James R. (Meredith) Cataland, niece Connie (Butch) Kless, niece Marilyn Cox and nephew David Cox ( Laura).
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, October 25 at Belmont Park Cemetery, Youngstown, 2 p.m. with military honors. Interment to follow at graveside. A memorial service will be held in Tallahassee, Florida at a later date for those who knew and cared for him in Tallahassee during the winter of his life.
The family is forever grateful to the caregivers of Big Bend Hospice who showed great compassion and made his last days as comfortable as possible. Memorial contributions may be made in the name of Ronald J. Cataland to Big Bend Hospice, 1723 Mahan Drive , Tallahassee, Florida, 32308 Phone 850.878.5310 or to the educational charity of your choice honoring his lifetime contributions to education.
Davidson-Becker Funeral Home in Struthers and Bevis Funeral Home, Tallahassee, Florida are in charge of arrangements.