Ronald Hugh Rath

Ronald “Ron” Rath, 88, of The Villages, Florida, passed away on January 4, 2026. He is lovingly remembered by his wife, LauraLea Cain Rath; his children Lynnel Rath, Jenni Weldon (Jim Weldon), Tony Rath (Audrey Rath), and Terry Rath; his grandchildren Kaytee Klinkenberg, Brian Haughan, Natalie Haughan, Emma Rath, Jack Rath, Sophia Rath, and Valerie Rath; his sister Toni Morris (Jim Morris); and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Aileen Rath, and by his beloved grandchild, Kelsey Klinkenberg.

A graduate of the Missouri University of Science and Technology (formerly Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy) in Rolla, Missouri, Ron earned a degree in metallurgical engineering and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army through the ROTC program. He rose to the rank of Captain and, after eight years of service, was honorably discharged. He carried the discipline, leadership, and commitment from his service into a remarkable career with Union Carbide’s Linde Division in Coating Services. Beginning as an R&D engineer and working in plant engineering, Ron went on to manage three plants, build and operate the Miami facility, and lead operations in Switzerland and Indianapolis. He ultimately served as Division Manager and later President of Coating Services.

Throughout his career, Ron was entrusted with complex international negotiations and business-building efforts — in Singapore, China, Russia, and elsewhere — and worked closely with major industry partners such as Pratt & Whitney and General Electric. Colleagues remember him for his technical acumen, calm judgment, and professional integrity.

Ron passionately loved his country and his family. At home, he was warm, engaging, and curious about the world. He enjoyed tennis and golf, cherished conversations that ranged from technical detail to worldly observations and was memorable for the easy smile he carried into every room. Family and friends will remember his quiet confidence, generosity of spirit, and steady optimism.

Ron leaves a legacy of leadership, intelligence, love, and kindness that shaped his professional life and personal relationships. The family will announce funeral and memorial arrangements when available.

To view the service please click on the link below,

https://www.youtube.com/@northlakepc

In lieu of flowers, dad would love donations to the Folds of Honor organization. Please see the link is below,

https://foldsofhonor.org/