Ronald George Passauer, 88, of Columbia, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026.

Ronald was born on January 24, 1937, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Harry W. and Nelly Passauer. He attended Temple University and the University of Cincinnati and, following graduation, began his professional career as a salesman with Procter & Gamble. He later advanced into the field of data processing, serving as Data Processing Manager at American Cyanamid in Wayne, New Jersey.

After several years in New Jersey, Ronald made the decision to relocate with his family to Columbia, South Carolina, where he became a small business owner and opened a brake repair business. His strong work ethic, independence, and dedication to providing for his family defined both his professional and personal life.

It was in Cincinnati where Ronald met the love of his life, Joyce Wehrmann. They shared a devoted marriage and raised two children, Ronald George Passauer, Jr. and Sally Ann Passauer Hill. Ronald was also a loving brother to Marlene (Passauer) Athanasakes.

Ronald is survived by his sister, Marlene (Passauer) Athanasakes; his son, Ronald George Passauer, Jr.; his daughter, Sally Ann (Passauer) Hill, and her husband, Michael Darren Hill; his grandchildren, Jennifer Leslie Matsushita (Mikki), Christine Megan Floyd (Dayton); and his cherished great-granddaughter, Rhea Matsushita, whom he adored with his whole heart. He is also survived by his “bonus” granddaughter and great-grandson, Kalynn and Eli Nelsen, as well as several nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce Wehrmann Passauer, and his parents, Harry W. and Nelly Passauer.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Ronald’s memory to Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 10000 Broad River Road, Irmo, SC 29063, or to the Alzheimer’s Society.

Ronald will be remembered for his dedication to his family and his strong sense of responsibility, and the quiet love he shared with those closest to him.