Ronald Eldon "Catfish" Arledge

Ronald Eldon "Catfish" Arledge, 70, of Chillicothe, passed from this life on Sunday morning, July 5, 2015 at Grant Hospital in Columbus.  Ronnie was born on May 5, 1945 in Kingston, Ohio, the son of Robert Walter and Lucy 'Martin' Arledge.

Ronnie was enthusiastic about sports and followed many passionately, but his love of baseball and softball was his most passionate.  "Catfish" was a licensed official who served the diamonds of Chillicothe, Circleville, and Lancaster for 50 years.  "Catfish" officiated extensively for the OHSAA and served the youth and the adults of South Central Ohio.  Ronnie's joyful approach to competition, fellowship and sportsmanship will long be remembered by those within the games he officiated.

Ronnie was a devoted father and friend.  Ronnie married twice with his first marriage to Darlene Jarral.  During this marriage Ronnie fathered two children Tonya and Anthony.  Ronnie married a second time to Linda Thomas who brought with her three children which were Jarrad, Justin, and Shannon.  Ronnie cherished his time with his children giving his love unconditionally to each.

Ronnie was a graduate of Logan Elm's first graduating class of 1963.  Ronnie and his father were recognized for their devotion as supporters of Logan Elm Athletics by the Logan Elm BOE with a citation of gratitude.  Ronnie enlisted in the service of the Navy after graduation and received an honorable discharge from the military, returning home he worked side by side with his father Robert Arledge in Kingston for 20 years plumbing.  When his father retired he worked at Zane Trace while Tonya and Anthony attended until their graduation and after many years of service finished his career at Grant Hospital in Columbus.

Ronnie's parents; his daughter Tonya preceded him in death.

Surviving are his son Anthony and his granddaughter Gracie.  His son-in- law Shaun Boler who was married to Tonya.  His sister Joanne Arledge Patrick and his brother-in-law Gene Patrick.  His niece Rebecca Davis who is married to Tom Davis and their children; Adam, Jonathon, and Erin.  His nephew's Daniel Patrick who is married to Chris Delong Patrick and their children; Natalie and Allison, and Michael Patrick who is married to Donna White Patrick and their children; Mack and Isabella.

Ronnie was a resident of Signature Nursing Home (Marietta Place) and is leaving many cherished relationships with the staff and the residents.

Funeral services will be Thursday 11 a.m. at the Hill Funeral Home, Kingston.  Burial will follow in the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. Friends may call at Hill's Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m.