Ronald L. Deke

Ronald L. “Ron” Deke, 88, of Lititz, PA, formerly of Miami, FL, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at his home. He was the loving husband of the late Sandra H. (Hoover) Deke, with whom he shared 61 years of marriage at the time of her passing in 2020.

Ron was born in Iowa City, IA, to the late Herbert and Irma (Walton) Deke. Seeking more opportunities in Ron’s first year of life, the Dekes relocated to Miami. At 8 years of age, Ron contracted polio spending years wearing leg braces. Ronnie was an Easterseals Child in Dade County in the 1940s. Despite his adversities and humble beginnings, Ron overcame where he excelled in basketball at Miami Edison High School ultimately achieving 1st Team All-City honors. Following high school, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force in Alaska, repairing remote radar sites. Ron went on to have a career in the banking industry, starting in an entry-level position, working his way to becoming a commercial banking loan officer, working with Barnett Bank in Florida and most recently with Northwest Bank in Hershey, PA.

Ron was defined by resilience, devotion to family, and a hardened spirit that never lost its warmth. He received great joy from talking with friends and sharing time with those he loved. He beamed with pride when discussing his son and his wife (Sherry), grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His fondest memories were the memories of growing up with bis brother and sister. Ron had infectious joy and a larger-than-life personality all his life.

He is survived by a son, Daryl (Sherry) Deke, of Nashville, TN, grandchildren, Scott, Jeffrey, Jack, and Benjamin Deke, Matthew Delaney, and Rylee LoBasso, 6 great-grandchildren (with one on the way), and a sister, JoAnn (Lessely) Noel, of Atlanta, GA. In addition to his wife and his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Richard Deke.

Services and interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Ron’s memory to www.easterseals.com.