Ronald William Derr (Ron)

Ronald William Derr

April 14, 1951 – July 10, 2023

We honor the life and legacy of Ronald William Derr (Ron), a man of unwavering faith and devotion, who departed from us on July 10, 2023, in Arizona. Ron was a God-loving Christian whose journey on this Earth left an indelible mark of love and hard work. Born on April 14, 1951 in Trenton, New Jersey, to William and Susan Derr, Ron’s life was a testament to the values instilled in him from a young age. With a heart full of dreams and a spirit of determination, he ventured to California during his early adult years, where he attended Moorpark College and embraced the challenges and joys of life with an unwavering and joyful spirit.

A significant portion of Ron’s life was dedicated to the construction industry, where he made a profound impact as a construction executive and consultant for over four decades. His mastery spanned both multi-family and commercial domains, and his expertise earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers alike.

But beyond the world of construction, Ron’s true passion lay in the great outdoors. An avid outdoorsman by choice, he found solace and joy in the embrace of nature. He shared his love for fishing and hunting with his beloved sons, Casey and Ryan, teaching them not only the art of survival but also the importance of appreciating the wonders of God’s creation.

In the 1990s, Ron’s life took a new turn as he embraced Arizona as his home. There, he found love and companionship with Fostene Elois Smith, and together, they built a haven of love and warmth for almost three decades. Their shared love for the outdoors led them on countless adventures, traversing the country in their trusty 5th wheel to visit friends, family, and the splendors of America.

Ron leaves behind a cherished legacy of love and devotion. He is survived by his devoted wife, Fostene, his beloved sons, Casey and Ryan and Ryan’s wife, Shannon, his adoring sister, Sharon and her loving spouse, Jim Stewart and their three boys. Ron’s light also shone brightly on his granddaughter, Riley who cherished the wisdom and guidance he imparted.

Ron’s life was further blessed by his mother, Susan, who lived to the remarkable age of 98 years, showering him with love and wisdom throughout his journey. He was a man of diverse interests, finding joy in classic rock that resonated with his soul. His vintage Harley Davidson symbolized not only a love for adventure but also a profound appreciation for the timeless beauty of craftsmanship.

Ron was a true friend to many and his smile will be missed by all. He was a true lover of life, family and friends. He will be missed.

A Celebration of His Life will be held September 23, 2023 and details of location and time will be available mid-Augu

st.