Ronald Paul “Ron” Rossi, 80, of Leesburg, Florida, died at home on October 30, 2026, surrounded by family after a two-and-a-half-year battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). He had celebrated his 80th birthday with family and friends just days earlier.

Born October 23, 1946, and raised in Brooklyn, New York, to Alfred and Rosalie (DeBlasi) Rossi. At the age of 15, he discovered a talent for repairing transmissions and worked as an apprentice throughout high school which would define him and shape his career.

Drafted into the United States Army in 1966, Ron served in Vietnam. He married Arlene in Honolulu, Hawaii during his R&R. After returning stateside, he was stationed at Fort Meade, Maryland. He worked as an auto mechanic before owning a successful AAMCO Transmission business outside of Washington, DC and retired after 40 years. He and Arlene raised their three children in Maryland.

In 2009, Ron and Arlene retired to Leesburg, Florida, they spent many years cruising and visiting their children and grandchildren in Maryland, North Carolina and California. Ron was involved in many clubs in the Plantation at Leesburg.

A lifelong model train enthusiast, Ron began his interest in Lionel trains when he was a child. He spent his retirement years creating and completing an intricate layout in a room devoted to his collection and sharing his expertise with many others.

Ron was beloved by his friends and family until his last days. He will remembered for his devotion to family, his tireless work ethic, his craftsmanship, and his ability to fix anything. Healthy and active before ALS, he faced his illness with the patience, good disposition, and accepting nature that defined his life.

Ron will be lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 59 years, Arlene Rossi; his children, Ronnie Rossi Jr., Debbie (Ray) Kurtiak, and Jill (Karl) Kieslich; his brother, Robert; and his twelve grandchildren, Anthony, Joey, Cameron, Corey, Alayna, Madison, Carly, Holden, Christopher, Hailey, Hayden, and Dominick. He was preceded in death by his brother, Ernest.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Ronald P Rossi Sr to ALS Association.

Please us this link to go to The ALS Association Tribute Page for Ron.  https://secure2.convio.net/alsa/site/TR/DIY/NationalOffice?pg=personal&px=9431177&fr_id=16212