Born on June 3, 1955, in Batavia, he was a son of Francis and Loretta Versch Cornelius. He was especially appreciative for the care he was given while growing up from his aunt and uncle Vivian and Kenneth Patterson. On November 20, 1989, in Black Creek he married the former Mary K. Gordon who survives.

Ron served in the United States Army from 1972-75 as a diesel mechanic. He was a lifelong truck driver prior to his retirement.

He was a NASCAR enthusiast, loved listening to his music, and enjoyed volunteering his time to maintain the farm league fields next to his home. His children affectionately remember his unique creation and singing of silly songs like “Prettiest Girls on Cloverleaf Road,” “Wake up Jacob,” and his Hot Chilly Peppers dance. He was also a liver transplant recipient that gave him more time with his family.

He attended the Black Creek Baptist Church and enjoyed reading his bible.

In addition to his wife Mary of Black Creek he is survived by his children, Ronald D. (Erica) Cornelius, Jr. of Bolivar, Seth (Cortney) Cornelius of Black Creek, Elisabeth Cornelius of Black Creek, Tabitha (Jason Jones) Cornelius of Cuba, Jacob (Kayla Elling) Cornelius of Black Creek, Michal (Dominic Cassata) Cornelius of Black Creek, Corporal Peter Cornelius serving in the Untied States Marines Corp., currently stationed in Okinawa, Japan, Lydia (Zack Nutt) Cornelius of Cuba, David Cornelius of Black Creek and Chloe (Roman Cavaletti) Cornelius of Cuba; 12 grandchildren; 1 great grandson; four brothers, Francis “Skip” (Kathy) Cornelius, Jr. of Alabama, NY, William (Jessica) Deming of Stannards, NY, Charlie Deming of Wellsville and David (Lisa) Cornelius of Maryland; four sisters, Louann (Dotty) Wilson of Belfast, Christine (Roger) Drumm of North Carolina, Cindylou (Jay) Sherwood of North Carolina and Pamela (Jamie) Cole of Bolivar; and several nieces and nephews.

Private Graveside services in Black Creek Cemetery will be held at the convenience of the family.