Ronald “Trooper” W. Rossi, 84, died January 13, 2021. Born in Freeland, he was a son of the late Marino and Pearl (Bettine) Rossi.

He attended Foster Township High School.

He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1954. After military service, he entered the Pennsylvania State Police Academy in 1960.

He was a State Police trooper until he retired after 29 years. He was a Lehigh Valley Safety Education officer and educated many school children in the Lehigh Valley. He was elected Lehigh County Sheriff and was in office for 24 years.

He is survived by a daughter, Julie and her husband David Tonkay; a son, Christopher; Peggy Rossi, who was a part of his life for many years; two grandchildren, Gavin and Macey Tonkay; and two brothers, Edward and Robert Rossi.

He was predeceased by three brothers, Marino, Frances and Joseph; and a sister, Marlene Swankowski.

There will be a calling time for family, friends and the Law Enforcement community from 10-11 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m., January 23 in Saint Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, 1879 Applewood Drive, Orefield, PA 18069. Properly worn facial coverings and social distancing will be required.

Contributions may be made to The ARC of Lehigh and Northampton Counties, 2289 Ave. A, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18017.

Arrangements were made by Gilbert Funeral Home Inc., Whitehall.