Obituary: In Memory of Ronald Eugene Childers, 1941-2024
For The Madera Tribune
Ronald “Ron” Eugene Childers.
On Oct. 5, 1941, in Long Beach, California, Ronald “Ron” Eugene Childers entered the world, destined to become a loving father, devoted husband, hard worker and a that genuinely good man. After a good life with many friendships, Ron passed away on March 3, 2024, at the age of 82, succumbing to the challenges posed by dementia.
Ron did not sit back and witness the changing times; he was an active participant. He wrote his narrative through determination, and an adventurous spirit. Although his roots begun in Long Beach, he was raised in Buena Park, California by blue collar parents which served as the foundation for a life that would touch many. That adventurous spirit of Ron, led to stops in Fullerton, California; Seattle, Washington; Bend, Oregon; Madera, California; Bellavista, Arkansas; Oakhurst, California; and, finally, Fresno, California.
Ron embraced the challenges of being a small business owner, primarily dedicating his career to the world of auto parts sales, later venturing into the world of a painting contractor. His ventures were not just about money, but reflected his passion for hard work, craftsmanship, and the pursuit of trust in him to please a customer. Ron was more than a businessman; he was a craftsman in the art of doing the job right, with honesty and reliability.
In his personal life, Ron was a loving and devoted father, husband, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His family was the heartbeat of his existence, and his love, warmed the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. He especially loved taking hunting and fishing trips to the great outdoors with his family and constructing and crafting woodwork.
While dementia may have cast shadows on his later years, the radiant memories of Ron will forever light up the lives of those who had the privilege of sharing his journey. His laughter, wisdom, and unwavering support will echo through the generations he leaves behind.
Ron is survived by Linda Hope Childers his loving partner in life, their children Chris Childers, and his wife Lisa, Cari Rollins and her husband Mark Rollins, grandchildren, Shane Childers and his wife Belen, Toni Hedding and her husband Kevin, Taylor Rollins, Carissa Childers, and Zara Childers, and great-grandchildren, Ariyah Bowers, Gianni Childers, and Jade Manoz. Ron’s sister, Mary Ann Landon, numerous nieces and nephew, and beloved dog, Buddy, also survive him. Each one carries a piece of his legacy forward, a testament to the enduring impact of his life well-lived.
As we bid farewell to Ronald Eugene Childers, let us celebrate the remarkable journey he undertook, the countless lives he touched, and the indelible mark he leaves on our hearts. May the memories of him and his accomplishments comfort us who mourn his passing as he rests in eternal peace in Heaven.
