Ronald Wilson, 83

In the quiet winter afternoon of Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023, our dad, Ronald Eugene Wilson, affectionately known as Granddad, passed away peacefully in his sleep and went into the eternal kingdom with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Ron was born Nov. 26, 1939, in Hayden to John and Eulalia (Lala) Wilson. He was the middle child with his sister, Bobbi Jo, and younger brother Frank (deceased). One of our favorite family stories is the day that Dad was in charge of taking Frank to Hayden elementary for Frank’s first day of school. Dad says he carted Frank into the principal’s office and, with a little shove, notified the staff that this is Frank, it’s his first day of school. Then, Dad darted out to join his friends on the playground. Dad also swears to this day that his initials are carved into one of the walls in that old Hayden school house.

Dad graduated Coeur d’Alene High School, he went on to join the Marine Corps under the buddy program with his good friend, Lowell Adams. Upon an honorable discharge from the Marines, Dad returned to Coeur d’Alene and married Lois, where they raised their three children. Dad is survived by his sister, Bobbi Jo, his former wife, Lois, and his three children, David (Tina), Matthew and Rhonda (Larry), along with six grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

In 1999, Dad retired from Idaho Forest Industries, after 39 years, ending his career as the plant superintendent of the DeArmond Stud Mill.

During his retirement, dad enjoyed following the Seattle Mariners, Spokane Chief’s, Spokane Indians and, of course, the Gonzaga Bulldogs. He also enjoyed teaching golf to his granddaughter, Chelsea, and great-granddaughter, Mckenzie, and keeping up with many of his grandchildren’s sporting activities of golf, gymnastics, football, basketball, softball and volleyball. Plus, many travels and adventures with his family. We love you. You will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate to know you.

On Saturday, April 29, 2023, from 1-3 p.m. you are invited to join us for a life and salvation celebration for dad to be held at The Eagles #4080, 1520 W. Wyoming Ave., Hayden, ID. Everyone is encouraged to wear Zag’s gear and we’re sure many of you have hilarious stories to share about our dad and his antics growing up.

In Dad’s words: In lieu of flowers or donations (which you were not going to do anyway), buy yourself a drink (of your choice) and have a very nice day. Goodbye. So long. It was a wonderful ride. I wouldn’t have changed a thing!

English Funeral Chapel has been entrusted with his final arrangements. Memories and condolences may be left on his online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.