Ronald Joseph “Ron” Mudd, 82, passed away on April 2, 2025, in Kennewick, Washington. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Ron’s life was marked by dedication to family, a strong work ethic, and a love for the outdoors.

Born on September 18, 1942, in Chester, Illinois, Ron moved with his family to Walla Walla, Washington in 1944. Later that year, they settled in Richland, Washington—a city that would remain central throughout his life. He attended local schools and graduated from Richland High School in 1960. He then pursued training as an electrician at Columbia Basin College.

Ron began his career as a journeyman electrician with the City of Richland. His skill and dedication led him to a position with Benton County Public Utility District (PUD) in Kennewick. After taking early retirement from Benton PUD, he returned to the Benton County Public Utility District (PUD) where he continued working until his final retirement in August 2004. Throughout his career, Ron earned respect for his reliability and commitment to his craft.

On May 26, 1961, Ron married Carole Ann Ettinger. Their marriage spanned more than sixty years and was built on a foundation of mutual love and support. Together they created a life centered around family and shared experiences.

Ron is survived by his wife, Carole Ann Mudd; sister Judy Sheldon; daughter Melisa Kay Stading and her husband Frank L. Stading; their children Josh Stading (Brittany) and their children Zoey and Zane; Darren Stading and his children Kimber and Ryatt; daughter Lisa Ann Monk and her husband Don S. Monk; their child Christy L. Koehler (Randy Koehler) and their twin daughters Maizie and Violet.

He is also remembered through the grandchildren of his late son Michael A. Mudd: granddaughter Kamilla Larson (Matthew Larson) and their children Lyric, Lucian, Lincoln, Scarlett, and Stella; grandson Kevin Mudd (Shaylee Mudd) and their children Jackson and Johnny; granddaughter Makayla Smith (Justin Smith) and their child Parker; granddaughter Abigail Mudd Franklin (Bobby Franklins) and their children Paisley and Hudson; and granddaughter Katie Mudd and her children Zayden and River.

Ron is also remembered by niece Tracy Sutton; niece Kelly Jones; nephew Blaine Sheldon; and their families.

He was preceded in death by his father Albert Mudd; mother Thelma Mudd; an infant brother; an infant son; Aunt Lois Mudd; and son Michael A. Mudd.

Beyond his professional life, Ron found joy in the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing and hunting—activities that allowed him to connect with nature while creating lasting memories with his children. Teaching them how to catch fish, hunt deer and waterfowl, maintain a clean campsite, or build a campfire without matches were lessons that will be cherished for generations. He was also an avid ham radio operator known by the call sign W7JII. Traveling across the country in an RV with Carole was another beloved pastime—together they explored new places under open skies.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025, at Einan’s at Sunset Cemetery located at 915 By Pass Hwy in Richland, Washington beginning at 1:00 PM. Immediately following the service, a Celebration of Life will take place from 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM at the Richland Community Center at 500 Amon Park Dr., where family and friends will gather to share stories about Ron over food and drinks.

Ron will be remembered as a caring man who was always willing to lend a hand to others. His legacy is one of steadfast devotion—to his family, to his work, and to living a full life enriched by simple pleasures.

May Ronald Joseph Mudd’s memory bring comfort to all who knew him.