Ronald Dean Stroup

Ronald Dean Stroup, born July 2, 1935, in Tipton, IN, to Allen Ray and Mary Edith (Curry) Stroup, passed away peacefully at his residence in West Lafayette on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

Ron grew up in Tipton and graduated from Tipton High School with the Class of 1953. On August 6, 1955, he married the love of his life, Sharon Anne Mason. Their marriage was full of love and blessings until Sharon's passing on November 30, 2004.

Professionally, Ron built a successful career as a sales engineer for CR Industries and SKF in Elgin, Illinois, retiring in 1997. From 1997-2009 he was a self-employed manufacturer's representative for Caterpillar.

A man of faith, Ron found spiritual fulfillment at St. Peregrine Chapel while living in Westlake, Ohio. After relocating to West Lafayette, he attended mass at University Place Retirement Center.

One of Ron's most cherished and remarkable talents was his mastery of prestidigitation. A gifted magician, he delighted audiences with his sleight of hand, bringing wonder, laughter, and joy to countless people. He was deeply involved in the magic community, having served as president of the International Brotherhood of Magicians - Kokomo Ring as well as past secretary and treasurer of the International Guild of Prestidigitators in Kokomo.

Ron is survived by his four children, Gregory William Stroup of Columbus, Ohio; Katharine Anne Webb of Hilliard, Ohio; Ronald Dean Stroup II of Columbus, Ohio; and Mark Allen Stroup of Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. He was a proud grandfather to Andrea, Michelle, Andy, Jenny, Matthew, David, Angela, Christopher, and Emily and great-grandfather to many great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two half-sisters, Marcia Stroup, Mars, Pennsylvania and Tammie (John) Farrell, Frankfort.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Allen Ray and Mary Edith Stroup; his beloved wife, Sharon; and his daughter, Karen Marie Calhoun as well as his three siblings, William M. Robinson, Richard Allen Stroup and Beverly Jane Wines Stroup.

Private graveside services will be held at St. John’s Cemetery, Tipton, and Ron will be buried next to his beloved wife, Sharon. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association, 12800 N Meridian St #125, Carmel, Indiana, 46032.The staff of Young-Nichols Funeral Home is honored to assist Ronald’s family at their hour of need. Online condolences may be made on his obituary page at www.young-nichols.com.