Ronald “Pappy” Arthur Schlott, March 11, 1943 – July 5, 2025,
With full hearts and lasting gratitude, we announce the peaceful passing of Ronald “Pappy” Arthur Schlott, age 82, at home in Harmony, Pennsylvania, on July 5, 2025. He was surrounded by the love of his family, just as he had always surrounded us with his.
Ron was born on March 11, 1943, in Pittsburgh, PA, to the late Arthur and Blanche Reckhouse Schlott. A proud graduate of Evans City High School, Class of 1961, Ron was a standout athlete in football and basketball—his energy and drive were unmistakable even then.
He married the love of his life, Mary E. Baughman Schlott, in Zelienople on November 26, 1965, and together, they shared 59 extraordinary years of marriage. Their union was a steady anchor, rooted in faith, friendship, laughter, and a deep devotion to family.
Ron was a brilliant businessman and a top sales performer in the insurance industry, where his wit, integrity, and people-first approach made him a trusted advisor and colleague. He was also a proud member of the Harmony Masonic Lodge #429, and the Rotary Club, and he served with honor in the U.S. Army National Guard for 19 years, rising to the rank of Captain.
But more than his career or titles, Ron’s legacy was found in the bleachers, on the sidelines, and at every family gathering. He cheered tirelessly for his children, Aaron and Marlesse (Hames), and then his grandchildren: Jordan, Meah, Sabrina, and Lexie. Whether at basketball courts, softball fields, volleyball tournaments, and equestrian events, he was their biggest fan. He was never happier, than when coaching, clapping, or calling out encouragement from the stands.
Ron loved a good church softball game and a summer picnic, where he could be counted on to enthusiastically enjoy cornhole and volleyball, or simply to laugh with his signature spark.
He was a faithful member of St. Peter’s Reformed Church in Zelienople, having previously served as an elder, deacon, and committee leader at Calvin Presbyterian Church—his faith was steadfast, his service generous.
He is survived by his wife, Mary; his children, Aaron Schlott and Marlesse (Chase) Hames; and his beloved grandchildren Jordan, Meah, Sabrina, and Lexie. He is also mourned by his sister, Terrie Walker, and many family members, friends, and neighbors who knew him as “Pappy,” even if they weren’t technically related. He was preceded in death by his sisters Bonnie Hoerner and Pat Feldbauer.
A service to celebrate Ron’s life will be held at A. Carl Kinsey-Ronald N. Volz Funeral Home at 114 West Spring Street, Zelienople, PA 16063. Visitation will take place from 1 pm to 4 pm on Thursday July 10,2025, with the services to follow at 4 p.m., officiated by Rev. Ralph Lowe.
Ron is summed up in this simple quote—it was the way he lived: “Show up. Cheer loudly. Love well.” That’s precisely what he did, and it’s how we’ll carry him with us always.
The family has suggested memorial donations in Ron"s name to The Zelienople Rotary, P.O. Box 245, Zelienople, PA 16063
