Stephen R. Margala Sr. 1940-2025
NEW MIDDLETOWN — Stephen Ronald Margala Sr., lovingly known as “Ron” or “the Big Guy,” passed away peacefully Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025, surrounded by his family, in New Middletown.
Ron was born on June 25, 1940, in Youngstown, to Stephen and Jennie Margala.
Raised on Youngstown’s South Side, he graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1958. Ron went on to earn his degree from Youngstown State University in 1963, where he was a member of Sigma Tau Gamma fraternity.
On June 2, 1962, after a six-year courtship, Ron married the love of his life, Melanie Ann Bednar. They were married for 63 years and shared love, respect and commitment to family.
Ron enjoyed a long and successful career in Information Technology and retired from Electronic Data Systems (EDS) in 2002.
Family was everything to Ron. Known as “Zedo” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he had a knack for sharing life lessons, good-natured teasing and memorable “Zedoisms.” He most enjoyed watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren play sports from the sidelines, often traveling far to support them.
After retirement, he and his wife enjoyed spending winters in Venice, Florida, as well as their annual family vacation on Hilton Head Island.
He is survived by his wife, Melanie; children, Stephen “Steve” (Donna) Margala and Hope (Keith) Archer; grandchildren, Megan (Andy) Ballinger, Stephen “Matt” (Devon) Margala and Alyssa Archer; and great-grandchildren, Henry Ballinger, Hattie Margala and Eliza Margala. He also leaves behind a large circle of extended family, nieces, nephews and dear friends who will miss his playful spirit and generous heart.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Jerry; and his sister, Stella Johnston.
A Celebration of Life is scheduled to take place Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, at St. Paul the Apostle Church, 10143 Main St., New Middletown. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by 11 a.m. Memorial Mass, led by the Rev. Gerald DeLucia.
In lieu of flowers, material contributions may be made in Ron’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
The family has entrusted the care of Ron to the Kubina Yuhasz Funeral Home.
Visit www.waskofamily.com to send the family condolences.
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