Obituary: Ronald Walton (1960-2014)

The smile of Ronald Walton (more affectionately known as Ronnie, Ron-boy, and Smiley) beamed from February 11, 1960 until February 3, 2014, and will continue to shine in the memories of the many who loved him. He was a good and generous friend to all and an inspiration to many.  Ronnie enjoyed skiing, sushi, NASCAR, exploring the Eastern Sierra wilderness on his motorcycle, and good whiskey.

He was born in St. Louis, Missouri, raised in Escondido and found his home in the town of June Lake in the 1980s, where he was a longstanding and beloved member of the community.  Ronnie worked at Mammoth Mountain Ski Area for 26 years as a proud member of the snowmaking and grooming crews.  He loved his job and the people he worked with, and was devoted to keeping MMSA a world-class resort.

Ronnie’s smile and laugh will be greatly missed by his all of his friends and family. Ronnie leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife Barri; two stepsons, Eric and Bryce Badger; his mother, Bertha Essary; his sisters Vonda Lee and her husband Gary and Brinda Ralph and her husband Arlen; step-brother Joe Tucker and his wife Danielle; sister and brothers-in-law Cheri and Greg Payne, Flip Gaudet and Mike Gaudet; nieces and nephews, David, Trenton, Missy, Travis, Matthew, Todd, Michael, Katie, Reese, Natalie, Corley, Quinton, Ashley and Colt; and so many others who had the benefit of knowing him.  All of our lives and hearts were made richer by having him share his love and many smiles.

Ronnie’s generous spirit will continue to give to others through UCSD’s Body Donation program. In honor of Ronnie’s love for his community, donations may be made in his name in care of his dear friends at the June Lake Women’s Club (P.O. Box 281, June Lake, CA 93529) towards scholarships and friendship offerings to help those in need.

On Monday, February 17 at 5 p.m. friends and family will gather for a celebration of Ronnie’s life at the Mammoth Mountainside Conference Center.

E Clampus Vitus