Ronald A Duff
aka… King Zoli – Zolighost – Dr. Roof
Zoli died peacefully in his sleep Tuesday, October 21, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ken and Eleanor Duff, as well as his two younger brothers, Jerry and Doug. To his friends, he was known as Zoli, to customers: Dr. Roof, and to his family: always just Ronnie. He acquired these monikers through his creative thought processes to render himself unforgettable! His sense of humor was always at work.
Ron is survived by his son, Luke (Debbie) Duff, granddaughters Julianna Duff and Callie Duff, sisters Sherry (Jeff) Conrad and Cynthia M Clemons (Cyn Duff), niece Jennifer (Will) DeSantis, nephews Doug (Melissa) Duff, William Duff, and great niece and nephews: Willie, Bella, Max, Brody, and Liam.
Zoli loved a good work day, rising early and meeting the guys at Eat-n-Park or other breakfast venues in the area. He liked to finish early, nap and head to dinner with family.
A passion for travel was developed and encouraged by his parents at an early age. The beach was always a favorite and remained high on the destination list. He wandered the world following high school and immersed himself in various cultures, making friends along the way – many with whom he was still in contact with for years.
Zoli was a self-taught musician. He played various instruments including guitar, piano, organ, harmonica, ukulele, and accordion. In addition, he was a prolific song writer: even producing a jingle for his favorite restaurant. He constantly had a song in his head – which many times we begged him to stop singing!
Reading was another favorite pastime. He was into biographies about the greatest leaders in world history and U.S. Presidents. His interests also included the various tribes of American Indians, National Parks, Political leaders, and world wars. He loved a good debate and looked forward to opposing your opinion.
He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, strength, comedy and laughter, as well as a very long line of vehicles he managed to run into the ground! He displayed a willingness to help others, especially those down on their luck. Friends describe him as extraordinary, unique, creative, one of a kind, remarkable, unusual, imaginative, inventive, original, resourceful, and inspiring. We Agree!
Zoli will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched. He regularly beamed with pride for his granddaughters, and with obvious pride and love for his only son, Luke. He demonstrated love and affection for his family on a daily basis. It’s hard to wrap our heads around the fact that he’s just not here!
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to your favorite charity.
A memorial service will be held at William F. Gross Funeral Home, 11735 Frankstown Road (at Rodi Road) Penn Hills, 15235 from 1:00-4:00 P.M. on Saturday, November 8, 2025, where his family and friends will gather to share memories and experiences.