April 7, 1944 – January 23, 2026
Ronald ‘Ron’ B. Chastain, 81, of McCordsville, passed away on January 23, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born on April 7, 1944, to Harold and Faye (McPherson) Chastain, Ron grew up on a farm in Mitchell, Indiana– a place that shaped his work ethic, his resourcefulness, and his lifelong love of the outdoors.
After high school, Ron proudly served in the Indiana Army National Guard before continuing his education at Indiana State University, where he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He went on to spend 36 years at Warren Central High School, where he taught industrial arts and poured his creativity and energy into building programs that gave students hands-on opportunities to discover their talents. He founded archery and photography clubs and became the kind of teacher students remembered long after graduation—steady, patient, and always willing to help.
Ron’s life outside the classroom was full of curiosity, community, and joy. He loved hunting and fishing, and in the late 1970s he became an enthusiastic CB radio operator, connecting with people near and far through the crackle of the airwaves. He was also known for his playful spirit, especially when he donned the red suit. Ron loved to play Santa and proudly served as the very first Santa at Fortville Winterfest, creating memories for countless families.
Faith and fellowship were central to Ron’s life. At Fortville United Methodist Church, he sang in the choir and played in the bell choir and served as a lay leader. Later, at Christ Presbyterian Church, he continued his service as a deacon, sang in the choir, led the “Men of Christ,” and even started a Euchre group that became a beloved gathering for many. If something needed fixing—whether it was a broken chair or a broken moment—Ron was the one people called. “Mr. Fix It” wasn’t just a nickname; it was who he was.
He also found friendship and purpose through the Fortville Masonic Lodge, the Scottish Rite Valley of Indianapolis, and the Murat Shrine, where he formed bonds that lasted decades.
Above all, Ron was a family man. He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 61 years, Diana—his partner in every sense of the word. Together they raised three sons, Douglas, Aaron (Julie Beckman Chastain), and Heath (Sheri DeLora Chastain), who carry forward his humor, his steadiness, and his knack for fixing just about anything. Ron was a proud grandfather to Austin (Alex), Jessica, Emily, Alison, Josh, Bryce, and Jacob, and a delighted great-grandfather to Charley, Raelynn, and Demi. His family was his greatest joy, and he never missed a chance to show it.
Visitation will be on Friday, January 30, 2026, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Seals Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 122 West Staat Street, in Fortville. A Masonic service and funeral service will begin at 2:00 p.m.
Cremation will be accorded.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in Ron’s memory to Christ Presbyterian Church or the American Diabetes Association.
Condolences may be shared online at www.SealsFuneralHome.com, where a tribute to Ron’s life may be viewed.
