Ronald Thomas Hlopak

Ronald Thomas Hlopak, age 83, of Jarrettsville, Maryland, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2025, at Upper Chesapeake Medical Center in Bel Air, Maryland.

Born in Sparrows Point, Maryland, Ron was the son of the late Michael and Isabella (Lock) Hlopak. He was the beloved husband of Sandra (Norman) Hlopak; together they shared a devoted partnership and would have celebrated 50 years of marriage in November 2025.

A dedicated and hardworking man, Ron was the proud owner and operator of Ron's Body Shop in Sparrows Point for over 25 years. After semi-retiring, his entrepreneurial spirit continued as he opened Clayton Wholesale Center, remaining active in the local automotive scene. He was well known and a familiar face at the Bel Air Auto Auction, where he was a true “regular.” Working on cars was his life’s passion and he continued on this mission until the final weeks of his life.

Ron’s heart found equal joy in the simple pleasures of life — tending to his flower and vegetable gardens, especially when joined by his grandchildren. He had a special fondness for wildlife, often feeding and naming the deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and occasional wayward racoons that visited his yard. He was a gentle soul who helped anyone and everyone he could.

In addition to his wife, Ronald is survived by his daughters, Lori Janicki, of Forest Hill, Catherine Hlopak, of St. Augustine, Florida; 9 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-granddaughter; and older brother, Michael Hlopak.

In addition to his parents, Ronald was preceded in death by his son, Ronald Thomas Hlopak, Jr., daughter, Deborah Caldwell, 2 grandchildren, sister, Loretta Gambrill, and brother, Franklin Hlopak.