Ronald B Trautz

Ronald B. Trautz, 74, died peacefully after a long illness on August 14, 2020 in Hamilton,NJ with his family by his side. He was born February 3, 1946 in Newark, NJ.

He was the son of the late August Louis Trautz and Doris Westerlund Trautz.

Ron attended Livingston High School and graduated from the New York School of Interior Design. He received his undergraduate and Master of Social Work degrees from Rutgers University. For a short time he worked as an interior designer and then began his career in counseling.

He was executive Director of The New Brunswick Counseling Center in New Brunswick, NJ and also maintained a private counseling practice.

Ron had many interests; he was an artist, a banana farmer, and a world traveler but first and most important he was a musician. His passion for early R&B led him to an organization in North Jersey called UGHA (United Groups in Harmony Association). That organization then led him on a lifetime path to places and people where he found love, success and support for his devotion to “the music”. He helped form a Doo-Wop a cappella group called Jersey Dream singing mostly near the Jersey Shore. His dreams came true as he was able to open for some of his heroes and to record an album. He also became a member of another group - Sidewalk Serenade - and enjoyed many years singing with his friends.

His loving brother Brian Trautz predeceased Ron.

He is survived by his wife Gail Trautz, his son David Trautz, David’s partner Mika Navarrette and his daughter Amanda Trautz. He is also survived by his sister Barbara Du Mont and her husband Bill Du Mont, his brother Bill Trautz and wife Gina Trautz and many nieces and nephews. Ron also leaves many loving friends and colleagues.

Ron received a liver transplant which renewed his enthusiasm for life. This enthusiasm helped him manage when he sustained a traumatic brain injury. He finally passed away after years of care from his close family.

A memorial will be planned for a later date. Please visit www.ronaldtrautz.com to be updated when arrangements are made.