Valley veterans advocate Ron Chromulak dies

The Monessen native and Air Force veteran was 83.

Ronald “Ron” Chromulak, a Monessen native and longtime advocate for veterans and community programs across the Mon Valley, died Friday. He was 83.

A retired U.S. Air Force veteran, Chromulak became a leading voice for veterans in the region, serving in state, local and volunteer roles that helped connect former service members with employment, benefits and community support.

Chromulak spent much of his life in service, first through a lengthy military career and later through decades of public and volunteer work focused largely on veterans issues. His efforts were widely felt in Monessen and neighboring communities, where he was a familiar presence at memorials, parades and veterans events.

Born Nov. 25, 1942, Chromulak was raised in Monessen and graduated from Monessen High School with the Class of 1960. Shortly after graduation, he entered the United States Air Force, beginning a career that spanned more than 21 years.

During his time in the Air Force, Chromulak served both in the United States and overseas, working in air crew life support and rescue operations. He retired from military service in 1981, earning numerous medals and commendations.

After returning to Monessen Chromulak continued his commitment to service through civilian work. He held management roles locally before joining the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, where he worked for many years assisting veterans with employment, training and access to benefits. That work brought recognition from state and national veterans organizations.

In the Mon Valley, Chromulak was active in a wide range of veterans and civic groups. He served in leadership positions with several organizations, including as commander of American Legion Post 28, and helped organize veterans programs, memorial services and community events.

Chromulak also played a role in preserving local history, supporting efforts to maintain and restore veterans memorials throughout Monessen.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Beverly Chromulak; a daughter, Tanya Van-Reese; a stepdaughter, Trac- ey Howlett; a stepson, Barry Miklos; five grandchildren; a brother, Greg Chromulak; and a nephew. He was preceded in death by two sons.

Friends will be received from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Robert A. Billick Funeral Home in Monessen. Funeral services will be held at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home with the Rev. Fred Pfile officiating. Interment will take place at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies.

The American Legion Post 28 and VFW Post 1190 will conduct services at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.