March 8, 2022
March 8, 2022
Ron was a very special man and an extraordinary friend. We had so much fun together and he will not soon be forgotten. I am saddened that we will be unable to attend his Celebration on March 12.
RON’S CELEBRATION OF LIFE WILL BE HELD MARCH 12th FROM 1-5 pm AT 14219 N 2nd Ave, Phoenix AZ 85023. MARCH IS A LOVELY TIME TO BE IN ARIZONA! IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO ATTEND IN PERSON, WE WILL BE LIVE STREAMING THE CEREMONY (BEGINNING ROUGHLY AT 2pm MST) ON ZOOM. WHETHER YOU PLAN TO ATTEND LIVE OR ONLINE, PLEASE RSVP VIA EMAIL TO: rememberingronshort@gmail.com BY MARCH 1st. Reach out to Sandy or Jessie at the same email or by calling 815-762-5866 with any questions. We look forward to “seeing” you and celebrating Ron.
Ron Short, loving husband of Sandy, inspiring father of Jessie (JW), and proud “Papa” of Evan and Lyra, transitioned from this earth the morning of May 24th, in his home, held by his wife, daughter, and son-in-law. Ron was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma early March 2021. He underwent brain surgery to remove two tumors in early March and pulled through with flying colors and a bright spirit! Shortly after, he began radiation and immunotherapy treatments. Unfortunately, though his spirit remained whole and he smiled often, his physical body could not outlast these harsh treatments. He bravely made the decision on May 6th to conclude all cancer therapies and return to his home with his wife and daughter tending to him. During his last two weeks, he continued to entertain his family, friends, and grandchildren with his warm spirit, priceless facial expressions, words of wisdom, and the occasional bad joke.
Ron married Sandy on November 30th 1984 in Kansas City, Missouri. They enjoyed each other’s hard work ethic and dedication to their careers, delighted together in raising their only daughter, Jessica, and made many memories traveling around the country and the world together. They maintained many connections with friends and family from different “life seasons” and, especially after his retirement in 2006, participated in reunions all over the states. Though Ron moved to Phoenix 6 years ago to be close to his daughter and grandchildren, he and his wife enjoyed time every summer in Yachats, Oregon, taking in the cool ocean breeze, enjoying the green landscape, and partaking in delicious eats and countless planned and spontaneous get togethers with friends.
Ron began his adventure in education at Greenfield High School, where he graduated in 1961 as salutatorian and the star of the basketball team. He completed his bachelors degree at Illinois State in 1965 and later, his PhD in Education at Northern Illinois University. He worked in public school education in Joliet and Lake Zurich, Illinois teaching middle school science and coaching basketball. He then worked as head of educational resources for faculty at Harper Community College in Paletine, Illinois. He then found his calling in sales and management training for several agricultural-oriented companies. He circled back around to Northern Illinois University and education, and ultimately retired as executive director of career services. Throughout his life, Ron lived in many different states, and about 15 years ago achieved a personal goal of travel to all 50 states.
Ron Short is survived by his wife, Sandy Short, his daughter Jessica Hayes, and his grandchildren Evan and Lyra Hayes. He also is survived by his sister Kay Herring and nieces and nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Lena Short, and his siblings, Jack Short, Raymond Short, Helen Bergmann, Bill Short, and RoseMary Reznicek.
Throughout his life, Ron supported many charitable and educational organizations. In honor of his memory, feel free to donate to a charity of your choosing in Ron’s name.
Following is a personal message from Jessie:
Many of you already know and have contributed to my project. For those who do not know or have not shared, I am asking for memories, pictures, kind thoughts and words, jokes, etc, about my father (Ron). You may share your memory, thoughts, and/or photos on this website or privately at jessicawhayespt@gmail.com. I am compiling a multi-volume book for his family and for all to enjoy at his Celebration of Life.
In my father’s final weeks, I was able to share so many memories, pictures, and sentiments from many people he loved, impacted, and cared for. He got great joy from this and I am unable to put into words what it meant to me to share this with him and to continue to learn about the great legacy with which Ron Short departed this life.
Ron Short, loving husband of Sandy, inspiring father of Jessie (JW), and proud “Papa” of Evan and Lyra, transitioned from this earth the morning of May 24th, in his home, held by his wife, daughter, and son-in-law. Ron was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma early March 2021. He underwent brain surgery to remove two tumors in early March and pulled through with flying colors and a bright spirit! Shortly after, he began radiation and immunotherapy treatments. Unfortunately, though his spirit remained whole and he smiled often, his physical body could not outlast these harsh treatments. He bravely made the decision on May 6th to conclude all cancer therapies and return to his home with his wife and daughter tending to him. During his last two weeks, he continued to entertain his family, friends, and grandchildren with his warm spirit, priceless facial expressions, words of wisdom, and the occasional bad joke.
Ron married Sandy on November 30th 1984 in Kansas City, Missouri. They enjoyed each other’s hard work ethic and dedication to their careers, delighted together in raising their only daughter, Jessica, and made many memories traveling around the country and the world together. They maintained many connections with friends and family from different “life seasons” and, especially after his retirement in 2006, participated in reunions all over the states. Though Ron moved to Phoenix 6 years ago to be close to his daughter and grandchildren, he and his wife enjoyed time every summer in Yachats, Oregon, taking in the cool ocean breeze, enjoying the green landscape, and partaking in delicious eats and countless planned and spontaneous get togethers with friends.
Ron began his adventure in education at Greenfield High School, where he graduated in 1961 as salutatorian and the star of the basketball team. He completed his bachelors degree at Illinois State in 1965 and later, his PhD in Education at Northern Illinois University. He worked in public school education in Joliet and Lake Zurich, Illinois teaching middle school science and coaching basketball. He then worked as head of educational resources for faculty at Harper Community College in Paletine, Illinois. He then found his calling in sales and management training for several agricultural-oriented companies. He circled back around to Northern Illinois University and education, and ultimately retired as executive director of career services. Throughout his life, Ron lived in many different states, and about 15 years ago achieved a personal goal of travel to all 50 states.
Ron Short is survived by his wife, Sandy Short, his daughter Jessica Hayes, and his grandchildren Evan and Lyra Hayes. He also is survived by his sister Kay Herring and nieces and nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Lena Short, and his siblings, Jack Short, Raymond Short, Helen Bergmann, Bill Short, and RoseMary Reznicek.
Throughout his life, Ron supported many charitable and educational organizations. In honor of his memory, feel free to donate to a charity of your choosing in Ron’s name.
Following is a personal message from Jessie:
Many of you already know and have contributed to my project. For those who do not know or have not shared, I am asking for memories, pictures, kind thoughts and words, jokes, etc, about my father (Ron). You may share your memory, thoughts, and/or photos on this website or privately at jessicawhayespt@gmail.com. I am compiling a multi-volume book for his family and for all to enjoy at his Celebration of Life.
In my father’s final weeks, I was able to share so many memories, pictures, and sentiments from many people he loved, impacted, and cared for. He got great joy from this and I am unable to put into words what it meant to me to share this with him and to continue to learn about the great legacy with which Ron Short departed this life.
Tributes
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June 17, 2021
June 17, 2021
I am so sorry to hear of Ron's death. He definitely had a twinkle in his eye. I enjoyed being a director colleague with him at NIU. RIP Ron.
June 17, 2021
June 17, 2021
I had the pleasure of working under Ron at NIU Career Services. His bad puns notwithstanding, he was a terrific boss and a wonderful person. May he Rest in Peace.
June 14, 2021
June 14, 2021
Our family has had the privilege of farming Ron and Sandy's farm here in Illinois for many years. We all love him dearly and will miss him greatly.
He was such a joy to work with, always positive and encouraging. Will miss the teasing back and forth , and the banter we had. Truly a great man who was a excellent example of how to live ones life. He made a lasting, positive impression on all those he came in contact with.
He was such a joy to work with, always positive and encouraging. Will miss the teasing back and forth , and the banter we had. Truly a great man who was a excellent example of how to live ones life. He made a lasting, positive impression on all those he came in contact with.
June 13, 2021
June 13, 2021
Sandy and I enjoyed doing things with Ron and his family--board games, hiking, garage sales, fishing, dining, attending ASU basketball games. Ron was always up for activities and made it fun for everyone in our group and everybody around us! Ron was a trusted friend and we daily miss his very corny puns, his optimistic nature, and his infectious spirit. We will always miss you, Ronnie, and will think of you when we wear our Redbird socks.
May 31, 2021
May 31, 2021
Ron is the best brother-in-law I have ever had! He is kind, generous and funny. I will forever miss him dearly.
One of my favorite memories is when I celebrated their anniversary dinner with them. Sounds kinda weird, but I was already there for the Thanksgiving holiday. I think it was their first anniversary. We had Fondue and wine, and we all giggled through the whole thing!
I don’t know why, but I always found Ron’s jokes funny, even though there were always a few ‘groaners’. Sandy used to say “don’t encourage him” when I laughed, but I couldn’t help it!
I love you and miss you, Ron.
One of my favorite memories is when I celebrated their anniversary dinner with them. Sounds kinda weird, but I was already there for the Thanksgiving holiday. I think it was their first anniversary. We had Fondue and wine, and we all giggled through the whole thing!
I don’t know why, but I always found Ron’s jokes funny, even though there were always a few ‘groaners’. Sandy used to say “don’t encourage him” when I laughed, but I couldn’t help it!
I love you and miss you, Ron.
May 29, 2021
May 29, 2021
Sandy & Jesse, Jim and I want to offer our condolences on losing Ron. He was such a life force that it doesn’t seem possible that he is gone. Even though we didn’t spend too much time together, the moments we had have given us fun, fond memories. The world is a less happy place now that Ron is gone, but we are so thankful that we have good memories of him...and you! May GOD lessen your pain and help you remember all the joy Ron brought to his friends...and to you❣️
May 25, 2021
May 25, 2021
So beautifully spoken, David Lockhart <3
May 25, 2021
May 25, 2021
Oh Linda I am so sorry for your loss. I am however happy that his suffering is over. I know how close you were and you will miss him terribly. As I sit here and think about Ronnie I have to smile and even chuckle out loud at the character he was. He was never without a comment or a wisecrack. He lived a full life for sure. The last time I saw him he was looking forward to the arrival of his first grandchild. I am so happy he got to experience that joy. Please extend my sympathy to his family. Hugs and prayers .
(I grew up with Linda and Bill and spent a lot of time out at the Short farm. Ronnie was always so much fun and so entertaining.) He will be missed by all who knew him.
(I grew up with Linda and Bill and spent a lot of time out at the Short farm. Ronnie was always so much fun and so entertaining.) He will be missed by all who knew him.
May 25, 2021
May 25, 2021
My deepest condolences and prayers for the members of the Short family at this very difficult time.
I had the pleasure of meeting Ronnie when I joined the family via marriage to his niece, Stevie Lockhart (nee Cummins). Ronnie welcomed me into the family and was always quick to share a kind word or comment with me during our many interactions.
He never met a stranger in my estimation and was genuinely a good man and person who loved his family. Always kind, pleasant and optimistic until he took his last breath. Ronnie will be sorely missed and has left his indelible mark on all that he encountered.
Rest well kind sir. You have earned a place in the stars with our Father. God bless.
I had the pleasure of meeting Ronnie when I joined the family via marriage to his niece, Stevie Lockhart (nee Cummins). Ronnie welcomed me into the family and was always quick to share a kind word or comment with me during our many interactions.
He never met a stranger in my estimation and was genuinely a good man and person who loved his family. Always kind, pleasant and optimistic until he took his last breath. Ronnie will be sorely missed and has left his indelible mark on all that he encountered.
Rest well kind sir. You have earned a place in the stars with our Father. God bless.
Leave a Tribute
Recent Tributes
March 8, 2022
March 8, 2022
Ron was a very special man and an extraordinary friend. We had so much fun together and he will not soon be forgotten. I am saddened that we will be unable to attend his Celebration on March 12.
June 17, 2021
June 17, 2021
I am so sorry to hear of Ron's death. He definitely had a twinkle in his eye. I enjoyed being a director colleague with him at NIU. RIP Ron.
June 17, 2021
June 17, 2021
I had the pleasure of working under Ron at NIU Career Services. His bad puns notwithstanding, he was a terrific boss and a wonderful person. May he Rest in Peace.
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Four Illinois State alums celebrating Thanksgiving in the AZ desert.
Early Christmas celebration 2019
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Recent stories
It was his Job!
June 5, 2021
by Duane Roggow
Ron was the ultimate work partner; industrious, helpful, enthusiastic and always good for company Morale! While at Sprint our then President started a program called, "It is My Job!" We all were encouraged to wear bright red pins stating, "IT IS MY JOB!" and we were encouraged to go above and beyond helping everyone to excel at our jobs. Ron did! He started his own program and every few days Ron would come in with his own unique Red Pin encouraging us to go above and beyond. I have forgotten all the different pins, but I can guarantee you they lifted our spirits and usually provided a laugh or a grin to ease the pain of the day.
June 5, 2021
What I remember most about Rod Short was his wishes for a Happy New Year to Rod, my husband, now deceased. While the greeting/saying is old now it was nonetheless timely and soooo good at the time. It was "Happy New You."
love you Ron, and Rod, forever, Di Wuthnow
love you Ron, and Rod, forever, Di Wuthnow
Pictures to come…
May 25, 2021
Soon