Ron R. Skelton

On April 1, 2009 Ron Skelton, 66, of Corvallis went home leaving us peacefully as he slept, with his wife and brother at his side. He was born September 16, 1942 in St. Louis, MO.

Ron was raised in Hidden Valley, CA. He moved to Montana in 1967 where he and Sandee raised their boys. Ron graduated from Montana State University in 1969 and began his career as a teacher in Hamilton. After 25 years he retired briefly before teaching 5 years at Corvallis High School.

Ron's passion was hunting, fishing, family and friends. His greatest love of the outdoors was found skiing. He spent over 30 years as a ski instructor. In 1991, Ron found the love of a lifetime, Bonnie. Together they lived each day to the fullest, never missing an opportunity to embrace life.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Lillian M. and James A. Skelton. He is survived by his wife Bonnie of Corvallis; his brother, Jim Skelton and wife Loren of Oregon; 4 sons, Randy Skelton and wife Christi of Corvallis, Jeff Skelton and wife Lori of Corvallis, and Jason and Rick Sturgis of Alaska where Ron loved to vacation; his daughter Cindy Koskela of Corvallis; the "other brother" Rob Athman of Hamilton; and 8 wonderful grandchildren, Randee, Sydnee, Scott, Aubree, Taylor, Tyler, Timothy and Lesley.

Though he will be dearly missed, his wisdom and humor can be found in the lives he has touched.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests that memorials be made in Ron's name to a fund set up for charity at the Ravalli County Bank in Corvallis, PO Box 550, Corvallis, MT 59828.