Ronald Waske '69

Dear Laurentian Community,

I write to share the sad news that Ronald Waske ’69, a beloved alumnus and longtime Head Athletic Trainer at St. Lawrence University, passed away on September 28 at the age of 77.

A native of Canton, New York, Ron was a gifted three-sport athlete at Canton High School and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from St. Lawrence University and a master’s degree in education from Bowling Green State University. He married the love of his life, Margaret “Peggy” McNulty, in 1969, and together they raised two daughters, Amy and Laura.

Ron began his career as a teacher and athletic trainer, eventually spending a decade in professional hockey as Head Athletic Trainer for the New York Islanders during their historic four consecutive Stanley Cup championships from 1980 to 1983. He was later honored by the Professional Hockey Athletic Trainers Society with a place on their Wall of Honor at the Hockey Hall of Fame.

In 1984, Ron returned to his alma mater to serve as Head Athletic Trainer at St. Lawrence, a role he held for 26 years before his retirement in 2010. During his tenure, he cared for and mentored generations of student-athletes and aspiring athletic trainers. His deep knowledge, quiet confidence, and unwavering support helped shape countless careers and lives. In recognition of his extraordinary contributions to Saints Athletics, Ron was inducted into the St. Lawrence Athletic Hall of Fame in 2019.

Ron’s service extended well beyond the training room. He volunteered with youth sports programs, served as an EMT, and shared his time and expertise with local schools and organizations. Colleagues, students, and friends remember him for his humility, generosity, and deep commitment to others.

We share our heartfelt condolences with Ron’s wife Peggy, daughters Amy (Steven ’94) Jo and Laura (Kelly) Bronson, his grandchildren Gavin, Sasha, Clara, and Ellie, and his brother Leonard (Ruth) Waske. Ron was predeceased by his brothers Richard and Raymond, and his grandson Alexander Jo.

The University, especially Saints Athletics, is deeply grateful for Ron’s years of dedicated service to St. Lawrence and the rich and enduring legacy he leaves behind in the hearts of all who knew him.

Please join us in celebrating Ron’s life by sharing your memories of him on the St. Lawrence University website. You can read the remembrances of others here. 

Sincerely, 

Kate Morris