Ronald O. Sickles

Ronald Osborne Sickles of Alexandria Township passed away on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on August 21, 1944, in Red Bank, New Jersey, he was the son of Tunis Osborne “Ozzie” Sickles and Ida (McQueen) Sickles.

He was raised in Matawan, New Jersey, where his loving parents led by example, instilling the values that would become the cornerstones of his life: faith, family, perseverance, hospitality, and service to others.

From an early age, Ron learned the value of working hard to achieve a goal. From his first paper route at age twelve, to helping in his father’s TV appliance store, Ron was able to put himself through school at Lafayette College, where he was President of his Fraternity, Sigma Nu, and earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He then went on to earn an MS from Newark College of Engineering. He had a successful career with Johnson & Johnson where he was part of the Research & Development team that helped to develop the groundbreaking technology of cardiac stents.

In 1961, while still in high school, he met Barbara Myers, who would become the love of his life and his soulmate. They married in 1966, beginning a love story that lasted over 59 years, and was admired by all who knew them. Perhaps the greatest testament to their bond came in 2004, when Ron needed a kidney transplant and Barbara proved to be a match. The successful surgery gave them the precious gift of more time together.

Together, they made their home in Flemington, where they raised their two children. The Sickles home was always open—a place where special occasions, shared meals, and everyday moments brought people together. Their children’s friends affectionately called them “Mom & Dad,” knowing they were always welcome.

Ron enjoyed spending time at his home on Cape Cod, as well as boating, fishing, model trains, and woodworking. Above all, his greatest happiness was his family—his beloved wife Barbara, his cherished children and grandchildren, as well as his devoted dog, Rosie, all of whom were at the center of his world.

Throughout his life, his faith in God was evident, and he exemplified the life of a faithful servant. He was an active member of Flemington Presbyterian Church, where he served as an Elder, a Deacon, and on the Buildings & Grounds and Fellowship Committees. His strong faith sustained him through many health challenges, which he faced with quiet strength and without complaint.

Ron was predeceased by his parents; his sister, Connie; and his brother-in-laws Ken Tonnessen, and David Smith. He is survived by Barbara, his daughter, Kimberly Kelleher; his son, R. Scott Sickles, and daughter-in-law, Caroline; his grandchildren, Zachary (Jaclyn), William, Jack, Nathan, and Rebecca; his sister-in-law, JoEllen Smith; and his nieces and nephew, Sandy, Kevin, and Amanda; as well as several great nieces and nephews.

Ron will be forever remembered for his humble, selfless devotion to others, his generosity, and his quiet wit. To his family, he was a hero and a role model, and they will continue to honor his legacy and carry forward his spirit.

Visitation for Ron will be from 3:00pm until 7:00pm on Friday, April 3, 2026 at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main St. Flemington, NJ. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Flemington Presbyterian Church, 10 East Main St. Flemington. Internment will follow at Prospect Hill Cemetery. The service may be viewed online at: https://www.facebook.com/FlemingtonPresbyterian

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to:Flemington Presbyterian Church, 10 East Main St. Flemington, NJ 08822 https://www.flemingtonpres.org/giving Or PKD Foundation, PO Box 871847, Kansas City, MO 64187 https://pkdcure.org/

For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.