Ronald Lee Richards

Ronald Lee Richards, 76, of West Salem passed away on February 23, 2025 surrounded by family. He was born to Kenneth and Jane Richards in Lebanon, Oregon on December 13, 1948.

Ron, fondly known as "Ronnie," grew up on a small dairy farm in the rural community of Pedee, Oregon. He and his siblings shared many childhood adventures on the farm and they learned the value of hard work. After graduating from Central High School in 1967, Ron joined the U.S. Navy where he served overseas during the Vietnam War. Ron received a Purple Heart, and a Vietnam service medal for his bravery.

Ron loved everything outdoors and had a passion for hunting and fishing. His love for archery, hunting with his hounds, and fishing took him to some of the most beautiful places on this earth that few people get to see or experience. Ron taught his son Mike how to shoot a bow at a young age and instilled his passion for bow hunting to Mike. They loved hunting together and Mike will treasure those memories for a lifetime. Ron would take yearly trips to Ilwaco, WA to fish for salmon and tuna. This was a highlight trip for the family and the many stories of those adventures are still embellished to this day!

Ron was a gifted contractor and successfully ran his own business prior to working at Western Oregon University in the Physical Plant. It was at Western where he met the love of his life Marlene, and they married in 2008. Together they ran a business, travelled the world and enjoyed spending time with their grandkids and great-grandkids.

He is survived by his wife Marlene in West Salem, his son Mike (Meghan) Richards, daughter Cindy (Derrald) Richards, bonus daughter Tieryn (Kevin) Olson, bonus son Jayson (Stephanie) Derowitsch, daughter Brie Lipari, brother, Terry (Vicki) Richards, sister Margaret Richards, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents Kenneth Richards and Jane Richards, brother Gary Richards, and daughter Tammie Richards Dorman.

Services will be held at a later date.