Dr. Ronald (Ronnie) Martin Jeziorski

Dr. Ronald Martin Jeziorski, a devoted father and grandfather, godfather and friend, decorated Marine, esteemed educator, and lifelong scholar; passed away peacefully on January 18, 2025, at age 79. He was a man of unwavering integrity, deep intellect, and a fierce commitment to service—values that shaped every chapter of his extraordinary life.

Ronnie was born on June 12, 1945, in Norman, Oklahoma, to Harry Alex Jeziorski and Lillian Jane Jeziorski (Martin). Though he was born in Oklahoma, his roots were firmly planted in South Bend, Indiana, where his family moved when he was just six months old. South Bend would become the backdrop of his childhood and the foundation of his lifelong love for Mother Mary and the University of Notre Dame.

A natural leader from an early age, Ronnie attended St. Joseph’s High School, earning a scholarship to play football at Notre Dame. There, he was a member of the 1966 National Championship team, forging bonds that lasted a lifetime and beyond.

As a commissioned officer in the Marines, Lieutenant Jeziorski led a platoon of 40 infantrymen in Vietnam with courage and honor, earning three Purple Hearts for his sacrifices in combat. His leadership and unwavering dedication to his fellow Marines defined his service and remained a core part of his identity.

Driven by a passion for understanding the human mind and the role of athletics in shaping character, Ronnie went on to earn a master’s and a doctorate in psychology. He dedicated his career to education, coaching, and mentorship, culminating in the publication of his 1994 book, The Importance of School Sports in American Socialization. His belief in the power of sports to instill discipline, resilience, and teamwork was the foundation of his life's work.

Despite many accomplishments, Ronnie’s greatest pride was his family. As a father and friend, he was both a protector and a teacher, sharing wisdom gained through hard-fought experience. His love was steadfast, his presence constant, and his impact immeasurable. To those who knew him best, Ronnie was more than his achievements—he was a man of humor, humility, and deep thought. He questioned the universe, seeking truth in both science and faith, and found peace in the belief that something greater exists beyond this life.

Ronnie is survived by his daughter, Jennifer (Jenny) Jeziorski; son, Jeff Jeziorski; and daughter-in-law, Jennifer Jeziorski (Brown). His greatest loves were his two granddaughters, Katherine Jane Cobarrubias (married to Michael Hanley) and Samantha Jeziorski, with whom he lived for the last eight years of his blessed life. He is also survived by a network of lifelong friends who became his chosen family. He now joins his parents and teammates, brothers-in-arms, and loved ones who went before him, reunited in the great beyond.

We invite you to join us in celebrating the life and legacy of Ronald Martin Jeziorski (Ronnie). We will begin with a formal memorial service at St. Paschal Baylon Church, followed by a more personal gathering at his home—an opportunity to share stories, memories, and love.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Ronnie's memory to the Concussion Legacy Foundation, an organization dedicated to advancing research and providing support for those impacted by concussions and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).

Donation Information:

• Online: Donations can be made securely through Concussion Legacy Foundation's website at . https://give.concussionfoundation.org/give/312896/#!/donation/checkout

• By Check:

o Please make checks payable to Concussion Legacy Foundation and mail to:

Concussion Legacy Foundation

361 Newbury Street, 5th Floor

Boston, MA 02115

Contact: For any questions or assistance with donations, please email [email protected]

Your support will honor Ronnie’s legacy and contribute to vital research and education in the field of sports-related brain injuries.

Semper Fi, Dad, Papa, Grandpa, Coach, Dr. J, Ronnie, Friend.  Your lessons, your love, and your legacy will live on.