Ronald Frederick Wakefield

A graduate of the State University of New York at New Paltz with a degree in Art, it was there that he met the love of his life, Pura Maria Cordero. They were married in Puerto Rico on Dec. 28, 1960, and shared a lifetime of love and partnership until her passing. He now joins her in heaven.

He is survived by his four children: Faustino Frederick, Nelson and Denise Wakefield, Magdalene and Chris Mann, and Maria and Albert Ramirez. He was the proud grandfather of Jessica Nicole, Daniel James, Sarah Maria, Alejandro, Vanessa, Alexander and Brittany, and great-grandfather to Sophie, Liliana, Emelia, Christian, Coralyn, and Everleigh.

In his early years, Ronald worked as an art teacher at Clinton High School, later serving as a department manager for several national department stores. After retirement, he continued to share his kindness and creativity as a part-time employee at Fredonia Central School.

An amateur artist, film enthusiast, and lifelong lover of music, Ronald began playing piano at age five and continued to play until the age of 89. He was a peaceful soul who cherished old movies, valued listening without judgement, and loved his family unconditionally. His greatest joy was found in watching and listening to his ever-growing family, whose lives he enriched with his warmth, humor, and gentle spirit.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love.

Visitation will be held at the LARSON-TIMKO Funeral Home, 20 Central Ave., Fredonia, NY, today from 4-7 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Trinity Church, 1032 Central Ave., Dunkirk, NY, Saturday at 12 pm. Arrangements by David J. Dengler.