Ronald Leroy Walser, age 91, died on Monday, December 29, at Kadlec Hospital, surrounded by family. He was born on March 11, 1934, in Manson, Iowa, and later moved to Dallas, Oregon, where he graduated from Dallas High School in 1952.

After high school, Ron enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during the Korean War aboard the USS St. Paul. Following his service, he attended many ship reunions over the years, including the most recent one in Tucson this past September.

Ron married his wife, Orrel, in 1959. He earned a degree in chemical engineering from Oregon State University, and in 1961, they moved to Richland, Washington, where they raised their family. Ron worked at Hanford for 30 years as a chemical engineer.

After retiring, Ron and Orrel traveled extensively, visiting dozens of countries together through cruises and land tours. They also enjoyed bridge, volunteering, and spending time with their many friends. Summers were often spent with family at their Pineloch Sun cabin and lodge.

Ron coached Little League teams for many years and was a devoted sports fan, supporting the Richland Bombers, Oregon State Beavers, and Seattle Seahawks. Ron and his family were longtime members of Central United Protestant Church in Richland.

Ron was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Orrel; his brother, Glenn; and his sister, Nancy. He is survived by his three children, Rhonda (Henry Jarvis), Jill, and Randy; his grandchildren, Carolyn Jarvis (Jeremy Sandoval), Mark Kholdinasab (Katie), and Alyson Jarvis; and his great-granddaughter, Thora. He is also survived by nieces and nephews Debbie, Kim, Diana, Jack, Monte, Jacque, Michelle, and Sheri.

Services will be held at Einan’s at Sunset Gardens Funeral Home in Richland on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at noon. Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the Oregon State University athletics department or the Richland Bombers athletics department.