Ronald Richard Gonzales

Ronald Richard Gonzales

April 29, 1944 – July 19, 2026

Ronald Richard Gonzales passed away peacefully on July 19, 2026, surrounded by family.

Ron was raised in Salt Lake City as the eighth of 11 children. In his younger years, Ron loved water skiing, a passion that later led into a love of snow skiing. He found joy in fishing and loved casting a line into a river and sharing stories with anyone lucky enough to sit beside him. 

Ron married Robyn Starevich in 1964, they had four children. Though their marriage ended, they remained united in their commitment to care for their kids. Ron found loving companionship and happiness with Frederika "Rika" Gruener. They married and shared many wonderful years together until her passing in 1987.

Ron was a devoted father and will be remembered as a compassionate man with a gentle soul. Of all the roles he held throughout his life, being a father was the one he treasured most. He was a steady anchor, a patient teacher, and a source of quiet kindness. The calm and thoughtful lessons he shared will continue to be remembered by those who loved him.

Perhaps no hobby captured Ron's creativity and determination quite like working on cars, specifically his beloved 1951 Chevy. He spent 30+ years perfecting every detail of that car, many times over. He repainted it so many times that it is difficult to remember all of its colors and designs, though one of his favorites featured flames stretching across the front and side panels. He took great pride in showing the '51 at car shows, where it earned several awards. 

Whether through art, craftsmanship, or simply his unique perspective, he had an imaginative spirit and a gift for transforming everyday objects and materials into something meaningful or useful. 

He saw potential in everything and everyone. He will be deeply missed and remembered for his generous heart, creative spirit, and love.

Ron was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Frederika "Rika" Gonzales, parents Rudy and Lena Gonzales, brothers Eldon, Doyle, Rudy, sisters Marti, Lola and Francis.

He is survived by his children, Kristy, David (Carmen), Robert, and Jennifer (Matthew); his grandchildren, Tayler (Eric), Danielle (AJ), Marissa, Karlie (Greg), Jordan, Graham, and Harrison; and his great-grandchildren, Emerson, Hendrix, and Rumi. Sisters Pat, Brenda, Marsha and brother Lloyd.