Ronald E. Zietz

Rhinebeck – Ronald E. Zietz, 83, a lifelong resident of Rhinebeck, passed away on May 10, 2025, at Northern Dutchess Hospital with his wife, Frances, by his side.

Born in Rhinebeck on June 14, 1941, Ron was the son of the late John and Isoline (Tarkington) Zietz.

A graduate of Rhinebeck High School, Ron worked alongside his brother John for a few years at Zietz Landscaping before starting his own business. He began as a dealer for Rupp snowmobiles and dirt bikes, eventually founding Ron’s Snowmobile, which he ran for over 50 years. The shop became more than a livelihood—it was the foundation of many lifelong friendships and a local landmark known for Ron’s skill, dedication, and generous spirit.

Ron and his wife Judy were a remarkable team. Together, they built not only a successful business but also a nurturing environment for many young men and women who came through their doors. One of those was his beloved nephew Chris, with whom he shared countless weekends traveling the state to race snowmobiles. Chris predeceased Ron on September 5, 2021.

An avid traveler, Ron took great joy in exploring the beauty of the American landscape during the snowmobile years. He held a deep affection for the mountains and open skies of Montana, Utah, the Dakotas, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Missouri. A lifelong fan of country music, his passion for the genre endured through the years. In later life, he found peace and comfort on the shores of Wells, Maine, visiting often.

From a young age, Ron had a love for fast cars—especially Fords—and continued restoring classic cars well into his 70s. When someone would say, “They don’t make them like they used to,” he’d often reply, “Thank God!” While his shop may have looked cluttered to some, Ron always knew exactly where everything was. At 80, he finally set down his tools.

Ron is survived by his loving wife, Frances; his cherished stepchildren: Lance Rowland of Cobleskill, Ross Hogan (Lindsey) of New Paltz, and Toni Cummaro of Rhinebeck; and his adored grandchildren: Austin, Joseph, Dylan, Jack, and Elle, taking great pride in referring to them as "The Grandkids". 

He is also survived by his sister Alice Florio of Wurtsboro; nieces Brenda VanEtten, Sharon Holsapple, Lori Holsapple and Cynthia Schady; nephews Mark Holsapple and Michael Florio; sister-in-law Susan Lloyd; and several great-nieces and nephews.

In addition to his nephew Chris, Ron was predeceased by his wife of 37 years, Judith; brothers John and Marvin; sister Margaret Holsapple; sisters-in-law Audrey and Mary Zietz; and nephews John “Terry” Zietz and Richard Florio.

There will be no calling hours.

A Memorial Mass will be held at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Rhinebeck on Saturday, May 31, at 11 a.m. Immediately following the Mass, all are invited to a luncheon and Celebration of Life at the Community of Brookmeade Pavilion.

Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate nurses and hospitalists at Northern Dutchess Hospital for their care during Ron’s final days. They also extend deep thanks to the staff at The Baptist Home for their kindness, respect, and support.

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