Ronald Karl Chesnik

Ronald Karl Chesnik, 80, of Walkersville, MD, passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 23, 2024. 

In the tapestry of life, each thread weaves a story, and Ronald Karl Chesnik was a master storyteller whose narratives will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew him. His obituary is not merely a record of life's milestones but a celebration of the stories he shared, the curiosities he sparked and the wisdom he imparted.

His life began in the vibrant city of San Francisco, but it was his childhood home of Milwaukee where his story found its rhythm. With a mind ever curious, Ron pursued his continued education at Michigan State University, earning degrees that would pave the way for a life of service and leadership. His valor as a Captain in the U.S. Army, serving in Vietnam, was a chapter of courage that earned him the Bronze Star Medal. As time provided distance, he shared his tales of the 35th Land Clearing Platoon with gentle pride, honoring the camaraderie and resilience of his fellow soldiers.

Eventually, his story led him and his family to Walkersville, a place he called home for over 50 years. It was in this serene town, where the whispers of history and the warmth of community intertwined, Ron, affectionately known as Pop Pop, became a beacon of tales and anecdotes. His career spanned the skies and the earth, from the airports of Baltimore-Washington International and Dallas-Fort Worth to the residential sites of Ausherman Construction and Joseph F. Devilbiss Construction. As an estimator, superintendent, and senior project manager, he helped craft various communities throughout Frederick County.

As the sun set on his working years, Ron embraced the joys of retirement. He explored parts of the world with the love of his life, vacationed in his favorite spot with his family, deepened his faith at Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church of Walkersville, and found solace in the growth of his garden and home. His family and friends were the audience for his endless stories, each one a gift of time and love. Ron, a man of honor, family, and an endless well of tales, leaves behind a legacy. His stories, a blend of history and imagination, will continue to inspire and comfort — a testament to a life beautifully lived.

Ron’s kind and generous spirit is carried on by his best friend and wife of 55 years, Connie; daughter Bethani Chesnik (Kenny) and son Cameron (Erica) Chesnik. The torch for his limitless curiosities will stay lit by his greatest joys, his grandchildren, Bennett and Beckett. He will also be missed by his sisters Barbara and Linda, brother Thomas, numerous nieces and nephews and other relatives who loved him dearly. In addition to his parents, awaiting his return is son, Brandon, who preceded him in peace. 

The family will receive friends at the Stauffer Funeral Home, 1621 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick, MD on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, from 5-8pm. Services will be held at Stauffer Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 31 at 11am. 

Burial will follow services at Glade Cemetery, in Walkersville, MD. In lieu of flowers, the family asks to consider donating to the Brandon T. Chesnik Memorial Scholarship Fund via the Community Foundation of Frederick County.