Ronald Phillip Weiss

Ronald Phillip Weiss
April 28, 1947 – January 28, 2025
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald Phillip Weiss on January 28, 2025, at the age of 77, after a courageous twelve-year battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family in his final moments.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, cousin, son, mentor, colleague, and friend, Ron was a pillar of his community whose influence will be felt for generations.
Born and raised in Springfield, Massachusetts, Ron was a proud alumnus of Classical High School (1964), Dartmouth College (1968), and the University of Pennsylvania Law School (1972). He was a past member of the US Army Reserves. Ron built his life and family in Longmeadow, where he remained deeply committed to the well-being of his community.
A renowned attorney, Ron was a senior partner at Bulkley, Richardson, and Gelinas, LLP, where he spent decades shaping the legal profession with his brilliance, integrity, and mentorship. Known for his sharp legal mind and unwavering ethical standards, he was a trusted advisor to many and a guiding force in the legal field. He played a key role in mergers and acquisitions, estate planning, corporate tax law, and nonprofit governance, leaving a lasting legacy through his contributions to legal scholarship and practice. He was a Trustee of the Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. and President of the Estate Planning Council of Hampden County.
Beyond his legal career, Ron dedicated himself to public service and philanthropy, finding sustaining solutions to address community needs and serving on the boards of numerous community organizations throughout Western Massachusetts. He was instrumental in the founding of the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, a transformative institution that has provided millions in scholarships and grants, where he also served as general counsel. He co-founded the Pioneer Valley Family Business Center, served as President of the Colony Club of Springfield, and was a member of the Appropriations Committee for the town of Longmeadow, including a term as Chairman. He was also a Corporator of the Springfield Museums, a Board Member of Sinai Temple, and a long-time Class Officer for the Dartmouth Class of ’68 including President. Additionally, he was actively involved in the Jewish Foundation of Western Massachusetts and a steadfast advocate for the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, where he held leadership roles for decades. His tireless efforts earned him the prestigious Pynchon Medal, awarded for his exceptional contributions to civic life through a “remarkable ability to understand and solve complex problems” and his “long-term dedication and commitment to the success of the organizations he serves and to the region in which he and his family live.”
A gifted violinist, Ron's passion for music began early, leading him to serve as concertmaster of the All-State Orchestra in Massachusetts during his youth. He frequently played duets with his daughter and neighbor, and then two of his grandchildren when they played the violin. He was thrilled when his youngest grandchild started playing the guitar and writing her own music. He continued his lifelong love of music by playing with the Pioneer Valley Symphony, performing with dedication and joy up until his final days. He was also a long-distance cyclist for over 30 years, riding throughout New England.
Ron’s wit, wisdom, and warmth touched countless lives, and his legacy of generosity, intellect, fierce mentorship, and love will endure. Anyone who spoke with him knew the feeling of having his undivided attention. He was deeply engaged, always interactive, and fully present in every conversation. The list of people he taught—whether to write, solve math problems, drive, play an instrument, construct an argument, or debate—is endless. He cherished his friends and neighbors and held a profound love for his family, finding immense joy in his grandchildren. He was there for their recitals, plays, grandparents’ days, and sporting events, celebrating their achievements with pride. Ron was a trusted advisor to friends, family, and colleagues, sought after for his sound judgment and thoughtful guidance on decisions both momentous and minor. His presence, wisdom, and unwavering support will be deeply missed.
Ron leaves behind his adored wife of 55 years, Janet (née Landon); his devoted daughters Emily Hoffer (Dave) and Kate Rubenstein (Dustin); and his cherished grandchildren, Ello and Dezi Hoffer, and Renna and Ian Rubenstein. He is also survived by his sister Sharon Kapp and her husband, Lou Kapp (children Abbey and Peter), his sister-in-law Susan Landon and her husband, Pat Weinstein (children Matthew, Emily, Eileen, and Andy), as well as many cousins, great nieces, and great nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Kermit Paul and Fay Roslyn (Robinovitz) Weiss.
Ron’s funeral will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, January 31 at Sinai Temple at 1100 Dickinson Street in Springfield, MA. There will also be a live stream for those who wish to attend virtually ( https://venue.streamspot.com/event/NTQwODA3Nw== ).
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to the Springfield Symphony Orchestra or the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, reflecting his lifelong dedication to philanthropy and the arts.