Ronald “Ronnie” T. Comerford, 83, passed away June 12, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born May 20, 1941, to the late Thomas N. Comerford and Rita Sauter Comerford, Ronnie grew up in Middletown and then resided in Long Branch most of his life.
He attended St. James grammar school in Red Bank, Red Bank Catholic High School and Cardinal Farley Military Academy.
He was a union carpenter in Local 2250 and worked at Collex Collision Experts. Ronnie was known in the industry as one of the best auto mechanics in the area. His gift for auto mechanics started at age 20 when he built his brother Tommy’s first race car. The two of them began a career in racing that became their life and hobby.
Ronnie loved life and all who knew him knew there was no greater storyteller. He loved history and he loved his family. He spent many days visiting friends and family and loved to talk about the old days.
He and his beloved wife Louanne were married for 56 years.
Ronnie was predeceased by his parents and his brother Thomas F. Comerford.
Ronnie is survived by his wife Louanne Collichio Comerford; daughter Ronanne DeRosa; and sons, Jason Comerford and Ron Comerford (wife Jolana). He cherished his six grandchildren, Anthony DeRosa, Skyla DeRosa, Clayton Comerford, Paige Comerford, Jake Pinto and Grace Comerford.
The family would like to thank Dr. August Wreiole for his relentless support and for providing the best care Ronnie could ask for.
Family and friends visited June 19 at John E. Day Funeral Home in Red Bank. A funeral Mass honoring and celebrating Ronnie’s life was held June 20 at St. James Church, Red Bank, followed by burial at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Middletown.
The article originally appeared in the June 27 – July 3, 2024 print edition of The Two River Times.
