Ronald B. Shortridge

Ronald B. “Ron” Shortridge, 82, of Marysville, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026, at Memorial Hospital with his loving family by his side.

Born in Pikeville, Kentucky, one of six children of the late Willie and Gladys (Elswick) Shortridge, Ron was a proud Army veteran of the Vietnam War who served in Alaska before receiving an honorable discharge. A skilled mechanic, he worked at the family’s Worthington SOHIO business before owning and operating his own landscaping company. In retirement, he found quiet satisfaction delivering flowers for Gruett’s Flower Shop in Marysville.

Ron was a simple and genuine man who expressed his love through quiet acts of service. He delighted in repairing what others had given up on, whether it was a discarded appliance or a neighborhood child’s bicycle. Fishing brought him special peace, though he also enjoyed playing the lottery and sipping Pepsi. Above all, he loved his family with his whole heart and took the greatest pride in his daughters and grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Nancy M. Shortridge, whom he married on March 9, 1984; his beloved daughters, Karen Shortridge of Lima, Tracey (Brian) Kessler of Cincinnati, and Jenny Austin of Marysville, whom he regarded as a daughter; his adored grandchildren, Samantha Kessler, Alex Kessler, and bonus grandchildren Avery (AJ) Issler and Val Austin Jr.; his brother, Ray (Patsy) Shortridge of Virginia; his special niece and nephew, Brenda Davis and David Justice, with whom he shared a close bond; and many other nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, a bonus son-in-law Val Austin Sr., and his siblings Rubyleen “Sis” Hurlbutt, Nell Justice, Roy Shortridge, and Betty Parker.