Ronald DaParma Obituary

Ronald Loftis DaParma, 78, died on Friday, June 20, 2025. A resident of White Oak, he is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Mary Jane (Hlatt) DaParma, of White Oak; son, Michael F. (Carla) DaParma; grandchildren, Sienna Catherine DaParma and Dominic Damian DaParma, of Bethel Park; sisters-in-law, Theresa (Jay) Kapadia and Cathleen (Charles 'Chuck') McDowell; and nephews, Charles 'Chaz' McDowell and Christopher McDowell. Born in Pittsburgh and raised in Point Breeze, he was the son of the late Dr. Frank L. DaParma and Gertrude O. Loftis. Ron grew up surrounded by close family and benefited greatly from the love and support from a large group of aunts and uncles, including his late aunts, Mary E. Loftis and Virginia A. Loftis. Ron graduated from St. Bede's Grade School in 1959, St. Vincent Preparatory School in Latrobe in 1964, and Duquesne University in Pittsburgh in 1968, where he focused on journalism. After graduation, Ron went on to have a storied newspaper career that spanned nearly four decades. He began his journalism career as a reporter, then moved up to be a copy editor and business editor at The McKeesport Daily News. He went on to become a business and real estate writer for the Greensburg Tribune-Review and Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. During his many years as a journalist, Ron covered some of the most impactful stories to the Pittsburgh region, from the closure of the steel mills to the opening of sports venues. Ron was well known and well respected among business executives, mayors, congressmen, senators, and his peer journalists. Post his retirement in 2009, Ron was diagnosed with cancer and bravely confronted the disease for over 15 years. He never lost his faith in Jesus Christ during this difficult time, and instead his faith only grew stronger. He also drew strength and inspiration from his grandchildren, whom he loved to spend time with over the past 10 years. Ron was dedicated to his family, his Catholic faith, and many dear friends. Ron loved his wife, son, grandchildren, and nephews dearly. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and uncle. Ron will be truly missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace. Family and friends will gather from 3 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at STRIFFLERS OF WHITE OAK CREMATION AND MORTUARY SERVICES INC., 1100 Lincoln Way, White Oak, PA 15131 (Sue Striffler Galaski, supervisor, 412-678-6177). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Mary, Mother of God Parish, St. Angela Merici Church, 2701 Kelly Street, White Oak, PA 15131. An entombment will follow. To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.strifflerfuneralhomes.com.