Ronald Emery Heckathorn of Orchard Terrace Drive, New Wilmington died at UPMC Jameson Hospital on Friday morning. He was 86 years old.

Born in Sharon, Pa May 24, 1930 to the late Jacob Domer and Alice Martha Gibson Heckathorn. He married the former Marilyn Jane Matheson on June 15, 1957 and she survives at the residence. Mr. Heckathorn retired from Sharon Steel after 43 years of service.

Mr. Heckathorn was a member of the United Methodist Church of New Wilmington, served as a board member of the Wilmington Twp. Sewer Authority, a 33 year member of the New Wilmington Camera Club and received many awards. He was a former member of the New Wilmington Lions Club and currently a member of the Volant Lions Club,

He received the Melvin Jones award for Lions. Ron enjoyed camping at Slippery Rock Campground and was an avid fan of the region's sports teams. He enjoyed times with the Sharon Steel retires and New Wilmington Men's group.

In addition to his wife Marilyn of the residence, he is survives by a daughter Susan Jean Heckathorn of Hermitage, PA and a number of nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by 4 sisters: Marie Gilbert, Marion Thorn, Ruth Ketler and Jessie Brenner. One brother Guy Clark Heckathorn is also deceased.

Visitation will be Sunday June 12, 2016 from 2:00 P.M. until 4:00 P.M. at The Smith Funeral Home 310 W. Neshannock Avenue, New Wilmington, PA

Funeral services will be Monday (6-13-2016) at the funeral home with Pastor Rebecca Rosengarth of the Church officiating.

Interment will follow at Fair Oaks Cemetery, New Wilmington, PA

Memorials may be given to his church.