Ronald Edward Kaltz

Ronald Edward Kaltz passed away peacefully on March 22, 2023.  He was born to Sidney and Rosalie Kaltz in Patterson, NJ on July 3, 1937. An unconventionally humble man, `Papa' Ron created Clara's, an infamous, life-changing, local coffee house, popular with college students, professors, musicians and artists. Always the prankster and facilitator of follies, his antics & dry wit became legendary.  Be that as it may, few people know much about his laudable life's journey.

Ron's path advanced from New Jersey, Maryland, Washington, D.C., Missouri, Kansas and Florida, before ultimately ending in Charleston, S.C.  Along the way, reality cast him a variety of roles as an affable attorney, avid entrepreneur, jazz aficionado, sports enthusiast and voracious reader.  He was also a consummate animal lover.

Ronald is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Gorlesky; his three children, Kimberly Elise, Jason Anthony and Jeffrey Aaron; two daughters-in-law, Anna and Sarah; grandson, Tyler Winston; brother-in-law, Rick Vantrepott; and his beloved corgi, Sadie.

Lamentably, after losing this grumpy guru, it's time to launch Ron's legacy.  A joyous celebration of life will be held to honor Ron on Saturday, April 15, 2023 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at McAlister-Smith Funeral Home, James Island, 347 Folly Road, Charleston, SC 29412, (843) 614-8494.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Pet Helpers, 1447 Folly Road, James Island, SC. 29412

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online:  https://www.mcalister-smith.com/obituaries/ronald-kaltz