Ronald “Ped” Clarence Pedrick

Ronald Clarence “Ped” Pedrick, age 76, peacefully passed away at the side of his wife on October 29, 2023. Born in Salem to the late Clarence “Chick” and Julia Pedrick, he was a lifelong Salem County resident. Ped (Ron) graduated from Salem High School in 1967.  After graduation he joined the New Jersey National Guard, where he proudly served 6 years while being stationed at Fort Dix. Ped married Linda Sue Owens in 1969. They have loved one another steadfastly for 54 years, built a successful business together and considered one another their rocks.

At the age of 16, Ped began working in his father’s business, The Salem Boat Exchange. At his father’s side, he learned all facets of running the business of boating. At the time they concentrated solely on selling and servicing Johnson Outboards, however as the business grew throughout the years, they added selling and servicing Yamaha Outboards, G3 Boats, trailers, and a storefront that focused on the boater in the summer months and the hunter in the winter months. Ped prided himself on the fact that he was part of a 67 year old family owned and operated business, until his death. Ped’s devotion to his business, and the commitment to uphold their excellent reputation for sales and services was unmatched, he was the first to work and the last to leave. He credits his successful business because he made sure to employ only the best mechanics he could find, including former mechanic Aaron Schafer and current mechanics Steve Lombardo and David Sites. He thoroughly enjoyed getting to know his customers and if you spent any time sitting across from his desk while he worked on a motor or boat deal for you, Ped never forgot you. His ability to remember what a customer purchased in the form of a boat, motor, or trailer, even 20 years prior, was uncanny. Ped cherished his time spent at his home on the Delaware River, and especially loved the holidays. Whether it was a bonfire in his driveway as he greeted trick-or-treaters and their parents, or a fully decorated home at Christmas, Ped was the consummate host. One of Ped’s greatest joys was goose and duck hunting with his nephew Steve, and friends John Chollis and Doug Chappius. Nothing made him happier than reeding the blind, calling in the birds, and watching the Shop dogs do their work. He was a lifelong supporter of Ducks Unlimited and a sponsor of the Salem Little League. Ped also found great enjoyment in following the Nascar circuit and the Phillies and Eagles sports teams. He was an excellent dart player and could be found on most Tuesday evenings playing darts with his lifetime friend Dave Faulhaber, or enjoying a Friday night “Happy Hour” with his buddies Jack Nelson and Albie DeMaris. Ped shared great relationships with all of his brothers-in-law, however one held a special place in his heart, his brother-in-law, Jack Kugler. Together those two traveled with their wives, pulled off some crazy stunts, enjoyed their cocktails, and created memories.

Ped is survived by his wife, the former Linda Sue Owens; his sister Janice Pedrick Lombardo; nephews Stephen Lombardo (Kelly), Michael Lombardo (Cherie), great nieces Alexandra Doble (Brian) and Grace Lombardo; and MANY more nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, all of whom he loved dearly. He was  predeceased by his sister Barbara Jean (Smith) Gatanis, and brother Robert Smith. The family would like to thank the many people who stepped forward to help out during this difficult time, most especially the loving, nursing care from Bonnie Chappius and Kay Cawman. As well as the friends and family who provided transportation to and from the hospital, or helped out at The Boat Shop, it’s been greatly appreciated and won’t be forgotten.

A memorial visitation will be held at WOODSIDE FUNERAL HOME, 613 Salem-Quinton Rd, Salem, NJ (Quinton Twp.) on Friday, November 3, 2023, from 9am-11am. Visitors are encouraged to wear their Boat Shop shirts.

In lieu of flowers donations to the Elsinboro Fire Company and Ambulance Squad, 35 Delaware Ave., Salem, NJ 08079 are greatly appreciated.
 

Graveside services will be private.

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