Beloved Cleveland Business Owner Ron Whitmire Dies at 83

Whitmire ran a trophy shop for over 47 years, serving the local community.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 9:28pm

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph in warm, soft pools of light, capturing the essence of a small-town main street and the faint outline of a trophy shop storefront, conceptually representing the cherished memory of a local business owner.The vibrant legacy of a beloved local business owner lives on through the memories of a tight-knit community.Cleveland Today

Ervin Ronald 'Ron' Whitmire, the owner of Ron's Trophy in Cleveland, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026 at the age of 83. Whitmire had run the family business for over 47 years, crafting trophies and plaques for countless local events and milestones. Known for his quick wit, love of the outdoors, and dedication to his community, Whitmire is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mary, as well as his daughter, siblings, and extended family.

Why it matters

Ron's Trophy was a beloved local institution in Cleveland, Texas, serving the community for nearly five decades. Whitmire's passing marks the end of an era for the family-owned business and the loss of a pillar of the community who was known for his warm personality, generosity, and commitment to supporting local events and activities.

The details

What began as Whitmire Machine later became Ron's Trophy in 1980, where Ron faithfully served the community by crafting trophies and plaques. Ron had a deep love for the outdoors, enjoying activities like fishing, deer hunting, and cooking BBQ. He was known for his quick wit and ability to make everyone feel welcome in his shop.

  • Ron Whitmire passed away on April 11, 2026.
  • Ron and Mary Whitmire were married for 58 years.

The players

Ervin Ronald 'Ron' Whitmire

The 83-year-old owner of Ron's Trophy in Cleveland, Texas, who passed away on April 11, 2026.

Mary Whitmire

Ron Whitmire's wife of 58 years.

Alana Whitmire Carrell

Ron and Mary Whitmire's daughter.

Doug Whitmire

Ron Whitmire's brother.

Charles Whitmire

Ron Whitmire's brother.

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The takeaway

Ron Whitmire's passing marks the end of an era for his family's trophy shop, which had been a fixture in the Cleveland, Texas community for nearly five decades. Whitmire was remembered as a beloved local business owner, outdoorsman, and community pillar who touched the lives of many through his warm personality, quick wit, and dedication to supporting local events and activities.