Ronald J. Gossard

Gossard, Ronald J., 74, Richland, died October 31, 2013, at Memorial Medical Center, after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Born December 28, 1938, in Johnstown, son of the late Irvin and Betty (Yingling) Gossard.  Survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Shirley J. (Ofsanko) Gossard, whom he married November 17, 1956; beloved children, daughter Sheree L. Kastner, Frederick, Maryland and son, Ronald Scott (wife, Michelle) Gossard, Buford, Georgia; and loving grandchildren Nikole Murray (husband, Bryan), Alexandra Kastner, Michael Kastner, Sean Gossard, and Hunter Gossard; also three great-grandchildren, Liam Gossard, Madison and Mackenzie Coplin; brother, Larry Gossard (wife, JoAnn), Conemaugh; and sister, Linda Locker (husband, James), Lore City, Ohio.  He graduated from Conemaugh High School in 1956 and the University of Pittsburgh in 1972 with a Bachelor's of Science degree in electrical engineering.  Ron served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1956 to 1960, including a tour in Cuba.  He was a proud member of the Marine Corps League, Conemaugh Valley Detachment.  Ron was employed as an electrical supervisor with the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Mine Safety and Health Adminstration for 27 years, from which he retired.   He was an avid Steelers, Pitt, and Conemaugh Valley High School fan.  He enjoyed his casino trips and sudoku puzzles, but mostly enjoyed spending time with his friends over the years at the Ponderosa hunting camp in McKean County. Always a devoted and generous husband, father, and grandfather whose wit and wise counsel will be greatly missed.  Family and friends will be received from 2 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, November 3, 2013, at the Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland, where funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM. Monday. Fr. Paul Robine, officiating. Interment, Forest Lawn Memorial Park with military rites by the active Marine Corps Unit at Ebensburg, PA. The family suggests contributions be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of Ron.  For online tributes and condolences, please visit www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.