Ronald Daniel Strom

Ronald D. Strom, 87, of Fort Myers Beach, FL, passed away peacefully at his residence on April 2, 2025. Born in Buffalo, NY on August 1, 1937, Ron was the son of the late Victor S. and Agnes D. (née Kwiatkowski) Strom. Ron lived a life marked by service, adventure, and dedication to both his family and community. A proud graduate of Canisius High School, he continued his education at Canisius College before answering the call to serve his country. Ron spent three years on active duty in the United States Navy and five more in the Naval Reserve, laying the foundation for a life of leadership and commitment. In 1964, he established the Strom Insurance Agency in West Seneca, NY, which was then moved to Orchard Park, NY—an enduring legacy that remains in operation today. In the years that followed, Ron and his family made their home first in West Seneca, NY, then in Chautauqua, NY before moving to Fort Myers Beach, FL, where he spent the past 25 years enjoying the coastal lifestyle he so loved. A lifelong boating enthusiast, Ron served for over 35 years in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, both in Naples, FL and New York. His love for the water extended to his time as a paddlewheel captain aboard the Chautauqua Bell and the Summer Wind tour boat. He also held a Merchant Marine officer's license and was certified as a Master of Steam or Motor Vessels. Ron was a parishioner at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church in Bonita Springs. He generously gave his time to the Fort Myers Beach community, serving as a past president of the Hibiscus Pointe Condo Association. He was active in numerous organizations, the Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 96 in Naples, American Legion Post 303, and was a Life Member of VFW Post 8647 in Mayville, NY. He was also an Honorary member of the Knights of Columbus, Fourth Degree in Buffalo, NY. Ron combined his love of the outdoors and his entrepreneurial spirit through his work with Shakespeare Fishing Tackle, proudly representing their Prostaff and promoting the beloved Ugly Stick fishing rods. He is survived by his devoted wife, Carol A. Strom of Fort Myers Beach, FL; his four children, Kathleen M. Stephenson of Westfield, PA, Ronald V. Strom (Cheryl) of Chautauqua, NY, Christopher D. Strom (Lisa) of Palm Coast, FL, and Jennifer M. Graml (Brian) of Pineville, NC. He also leaves behind eight cherished grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Ron was predeceased by his beloved sisters, Diane G. Ortolano and Christine Bailey. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 28300 Beaumont Rd., Bonita Springs, FL. Military honors will follow the Mass in recognition of Ron’s proud service to his country. For those who are unable to attend the Mass in person it will be livestreamed at https://www.facebook.com/events/s/mass-of-christian-burial-for-r/689872650399075/ Ron’s legacy of service, love for the sea, and dedication to his family and country will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. To sign the guest register or leave a message of condolence, please visit www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com. Arrangements are being handled by Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home Family Owned and Operated Since 1978.

Ronald Daniel Strom

August 1, 1937 - April 2, 2025