Ronald E. Creatore 1936-2026
CANFIELD — Ronald E. Creatore passed away peacefully Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Windsor House at Canfield.
Ron was born Aug. 10, 1936, in New Castle, Pa., the son of Clara and Michael Creatore.
Ron was raised on the East Side and spent most of his life in the Youngstown area.
Ron graduated from East High School and proudly served in the U.S. Army between 1955 and 1957.
After working many years at GTE in Boardman, the closing of the local facility in 1981 opened an entrepreneurial opportunity for Ron to develop. He created and operated Creative Merchandize Inc. and was a fixture at many local flea markets as well as at his small general store in McKinley Heights, Niles.
Ron is survived by his children, Jeanne Jones, Sharon (Joe) Bettura and Ronald M. (Patty) Creatore.
Ron was known as “Gramps” and “Bips” by his grandchildren, and they brought him much joy: Alexandra Jones, Morgan (Will) Bisbikis, Griffin and Connor Jones, Joseph Bettura, Joelle (Steve) Stack, Jared (Addie) Bettura, Matthew (Lane) Creatore, Marissa (fiance Brooks) and Maddie Creatore.
His great-grandchildren include Finley and Huxley Bisbikis, Enzo, Emilio and Estella Stack, Cecelia and Dominic Bettura.
He is also mourned by MaryAnne Bette Creatore, his wife of 44 years. Ron leaves his brothers, Mike and Jerry Creatore; several nieces and nephews; and many cousins of the Creatore, Creaturo and Creatura families.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents; his eldest brother, Ralph; and sisters-in-law, Sylvia and Sandra Creatore.
Calling hours are 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 16, with a vigil service from noon to 12:30 p.m. at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Boardman-Canfield Chapel.
All are invited to celebrate at a mercy meal immediately following the prayer service.
In lieu of flowers, material tributes may take the form of donations to Akeso Hospice, 6600 Summit Drive, Canfield, OH 44406.
Ron’s family extends a thank you to the staff at Windsor House Canfield, who cared for him since June 2023.
In his last months, Ron received exceptional support and compassion from Akeso Hospice staff, and his family is grateful.
(special notice)