Ronald William Hornik

Ronald William Hornik — trumpet player, flannel connoisseur, and lifelong mischief-maker — departed this world on April 9, 2025, at the age of 76. Born August 28, 1948, in Cleveland, Ohio, Ron lived a rich, full life that was equal parts laughter, love, and polka.

He proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, where he not only earned medals but managed to bring a little music to the front lines with his trumpet. Music was never just a hobby—it was his way of connecting with the world. Over the years, he played with multiple bands, most notably the Grammy-nominated Atlanta Polka Band, bringing joy, rhythm, and just the right amount of polka to countless people.

But the Atlanta Polka Band was just one stop on his musical journey. Ron also played with the American Legion Band, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Band, Polish Legion of American Veterans Band, Sokol Tyra (Bohemian) Band, the Italian American Marching Band, and the Kontells. If there was a horn section and a crowd to entertain, Ron was there —trumpet ready.

Ron was a dedicated father and doting grandfather who loved his family fiercely—and sometimes a little intimidatingly, especially when potential suitors came around. (Let’s just say, if you were dating one of his kids or grandkids, you’d better come correct.) He is survived by his children, Robin (Chris) Butler and Tommy (Natalie) Hornik, who inherited his wit, resilience, and probably his stubborn streak. His four beloved granddaughters—Haley, Ilona, Lucie, and Lailah—kept his heart young, his wallet empty, his car running, and his calendar full.

Style-wise, Ron marched to the beat of his own drum—or polka beat, more accurately. His signature look? A cozy flannel shirt, jeans, and an unforgettable orange toboggan hat, worn with the confidence of a man who didn’t care what you thought. Clothes were always optional in Ron’s book—he considered pants a suggestion, not a rule. His family lovingly tolerated this by vacationing then cleaning vigoursly upon return

He had strong opinions about daytime TV (don’t call him during Judge Judy) loved judging Family Feud contestant answers and guessing who would be the “baby daddy” during any trash TV episode. He loved all Gordon Ramsey shows and eating at his restaurants was the chef’s kiss. On social media, Ron was a legend—sharing dad jokes, unsolicited “advice”, and perhaps a few too many hysterical replies. He loved this connection to his friends and family, when he was not getting locked out of his account. He daily shared what he discovered today on Facebook and why we are “posting it up for papa”.

And let’s not forget the slots. Ron loved a good slot machine (like his mom)— and unlike most, he didn’t just play, he won. He wasn’t superstitious, he was just good. He knew when to walk away, when to cash out, and when to treat everyone to dinner with his winnings. The casino was his playground, and the house never quite figured out how he kept coming out ahead.

He was a lifelong fan of watching, and mocking with Gavin, the Atlanta Braves (chop, chop), Cleveland Browns (bark, bark), and The Ohio State Buckeyes—teams that surely tested his blood pressure and faith, but never his loyalty. An Eagle Scout in his younger days, Ron carried that same determination and sense of adventure through every chapter of his life.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, and is survived by his children, grandchildren, sister Patricia St. George, and his former wife Ms. Linda Hornik. He also leaves behind a tribe of family and friends who adored him, and who now carry the torch of his stories, jokes, and completely original car hand drumming moves.

His legacy is one of love, laughter, music, and stubborn joy. If you listen closely, you might still hear a trumpet solo in the distance—and if you do, smile. Ron’s just letting you know he's doing fine. He casino walked into Heaven and is Happy, Happy!