Ronald Ganse Steelman

May 20, 1946 - July 31, 2023

Ronald Ganse Steelman, 77, of Aberdeen, New Jersey passed away peacefully on Monday, July 31, 2023, in Holmdel, New Jersey. Ron was born on May 20, 1946, in Columbus, Ohio where he graduated from Eastmoor High School and attended The Ohio State University, where he proudly played drums in the OSU Marching Band. He also worked professionally as a drummer. In the 1970s-80s he worked as a professional actor performing major roles in classical and modern plays at many regional theater companies. Ron received two Emmy Awards for his work on the live children's TV program "Friendly Junction" on 10TV - WBNS from 1972-75 in which he played the role of Ron the Mailman, along with sidekick Leslie Podkin in the role of Mrs. Rattlebee. He also appeared on "Luci's Toyshop" and in many comedy sketches with Flippo the Clown. In Los Angeles he appeared on "Seinfeld" (episode "The Stakeout" as "Cousin Artie Levine"), "Alf," "Murder, She Wrote," and the film "Out for Blood" starring kickboxer Don "The Dragon" Wilson.

For his work in advertising, Ron received an Addy Award. His agency, Steelman Media, produced many TV and radio spots for local businesses. After moving to Aberdeen, New Jersey in 2003 he was the Marketing Director at Two River Theater in Red Bank, New Jersey.

Ron was proud to be a Secular Humanist, serving as the first President of Red Bank Humanists in Red Bank, New Jersey, a non-profit educational organization he co-founded in 2003.

Ron is survived by his wife of 34 years, Elaine Rowe (Smith) Steelman, daughter Alissa Nelyn Steelman of Columbus, Ohio, son William Hunter Steelman of Charleston, South Carolina, brother R. Scott Steelman of Columbus, Ohio as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

In respect of Ron's wishes he will be privately cremated. Shore Point Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 3269 State Highway/Route 35 North, Hazlet, New Jersey 07730 was entrusted with arrangements. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to Red Bank Humanists (https://www.redbankhumanists.org/) or the humanist organization of your choice, or to the Entertainment Community Fund (formerly The Actors Fund - https://entertainmentcommunity.org/ ). For more information or to send the family condolences please visit www.shorepointfh.com.

Ron was a member of the marching band in 1964. He played Snare drum in L-Row.