Ronald Mason Orr

Ronald Mason Orr, age 79, of Cheektowaga, New York, died on Monday, December 18, 2017 at Christiana Hospital in Newark, Delaware.

A 1957 graduate of Painted Post High School in Painted Post, New York and 1960 Corning Community College (CCC’s first graduating class) in Corning, New York, Ron attended Buffalo State College, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1963 and a Master of Science in 1967.

Ron began his teaching career at Depew High School in 1964 and taught American History and Advanced Placement History until his retirement in 1993. His dedication to his students and fellow teachers was legendary. Ron was one of the pioneers in the formation of the Depew Teachers Organization. Throughout his years at Depew, Ron served as a mentor to his fellow teachers and served in many positions in the DTO including President. For many years, Ron was a recognized figure in the halls of the NY State Legislature in Albany where, as a member of the New York State United Teachers Committee of 100, he met with state legislators in an effort to keep them informed about important educational issues.

Much more important to Ron, however, was the academic and personal success of his students. While students often complained that his courses were “too tough,” Ron refused to allow his students to fail and he encouraged them, provided any extra help needed, and worked vigorously to prepare them for state exams, for college, and for life. In Ron’s entire career, none of his students failed state exams in American History and his AP History students excelled. Ron kept in close contact with many students as they grew up and went on to college, jobs and families.

Ron was dedicated to athletics at his alma mater Buffalo State where he was a member of the Athletics Bengal Club, to Buffalo Bisons Baseball, and to the Depew Wildcat athletic program. Ron was very dedicated to the Women’s Basketball program at Buffalo State (his daughter Jeanne being a Buffalo State Hall-of-Fame player for them), and was well recognized as a “super fan.” After retirement, Ron amazed his friends with his ability to find time to attend multiple high school, college, and professional games – often on the same day.

A man of inexhaustible energy and an inveterate traveler, Ron spent much of the past 23 years in Claymont, Delaware with beloved long-time companion, Beverly. Together they traveled the United States and globe and attended many movies, concerts and musicals.

Ron was predeceased by his daughter Karen Orr Vogt. He is survived by his daughter Jeanne Orr of Orange, MA, longtime companion Beverly Naumann of Claymont, DE, grandson Gregory Hirsch of CO, brothers Larry Orr and his wife Sally of Lindley, NY, Calvin Orr and his wife Karen of Caton, NY, brother and sister-in-Law Joseph Kilmer and Mary (Randall) Kilmer of West Seneca, NY, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Charitable donations in Ronald Orr’s memory can be made to Presho United Methodist Church, 1727 Indian Hills Road, Painted Post, New York 14870 or Buffalo State College Athletics, 1300 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, New York 14222.