Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Ron PINEDA Obituary
PINEDA, Ron
Ron Pineda passed away suddenly on February 10, 2012. He was born in Sterling, Illinois on June 18, 1938 to Max and Catherine Pineda. Ron is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Donna; his brothers Richard, Randy, Butch, and Roger, his sisters Sandra and Sylvia, four aunts, one uncle, many nieces and nephews, numerous in-laws and many friends.
He attended the University of Illinois and was a proud member of the United States Marine Corps. In 1961 he headed west to California to wrestle for the San Francisco Olympic Club.
In his 31-year federal civil service career he worked for both the Navy and the Air Force at: Mare Island, Vallejo; Hunters Point, SF; Sand Point, WA; and Mather AFB, Sacramento, as well as bases in Iceland, Crete and Germany. He retired from Mather in 1993 after many years as Recreation Services Director. His creativity always left his bases with enriched programs for the military and their families. He enjoyed many years in the antique business, was a tireless sports fan attending nine Olympic Games, four World Championships, and loved to golf and be with friends.
Ron's lifelong passion for wrestling started at Sterling High when he became State Champion in 1956. He went on to wrestle for the U of I where he was a Letterman. He was All Marine Corps Champion in 1959 and took second in the 1964 Olympic Trials in Greco, while wrestling for the Olympic Club. His leadership as president of the Bay Area Wrestling Association helped in the continuation of this program to provide all year wrestling for Bay Area youths. He coached wrestling for the Navy, the Air Force, and the Marines as well as college and high school, and started the first Japanese wrestling exchange with the United States and has continued to stay involved in supporting and promoting the sport.
Ron lived and enjoyed life to the fullest. He loved kids and dogs and his uniquely exuberant character endeared him to many, young and old. He will be sadly missed.
Funeral services will be held at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, 1017 11th Street, Sacramento, CA at 11:00 am, Saturday, March 3, 2012.
Read more here: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/sacbee/obituary.aspx?n=ron-pineda&pid=155919692#storylink=cpy
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ron PINEDA
Sponsored by anonymous.
Cathy martinez
February 19, 2025
Cousin Ron held me up when my daddy passed, and he is forever in my heart. Despite not even knowing me, he was my rock, helped me plan the funeral, and was there for me through what was a nightmare for me. I'm sorry we didn't have more time. Rest in heaven cousin..
Keith Horace Ellis
February 11, 2025
I remember Ron Pineda as a man who was there for me and my family while stationed in Germany for the United States Air Force. His strength of character was always on display.
Cathy martinez
February 12, 2023
Miss you my cousin! Life's much too short..
Donna
February 11, 2023
11 Years have passed but memories last a lifetime. May any of his friends reading this be blessed by a beautiful memory of Ron's joyful spirit...that I'm sure continues to charm the souls in heaven.
Rest in the Peace of Christ, my love
Donna
Donna Pineda
February 11, 2021
Dear Dave,
How nice to have you remember Ron. A day does not pass that I don't think of some witty thing he would say or do. I really miss the laughter he would inspire when he was around people. Could sure use that in these days of Covid. Hope things are well with you, Donna
David Kreider
February 11, 2021
Ron and I shared the same wrestling coach, Homer Musgrove at Sterling High School. As a Freshman 98lb at Sterling, Ron would come back during the Christmas holidays from the U of Illinois and show me wrestling techniques and kick my butt. I always appreciated the lessons learned from Ron. I went on to wrestle at Northwestern for Coach Ken Kraft another Sterling High wrestling alum, so Ron’s lessons paid off for me. Ron was a giving person and loved by all who knew him. Yes he is missed but I love my memories I had with Ron.
David Kreider
SHS class of 1960
Dannel McCollum
February 12, 2020
Donna: Has it been eight years since we have lost Ron? I remember it was like yesterday. His enthusiasm is hard to forget whether it was wrestling, antiques, whattever .
Donna Pineda
February 11, 2020
You are not forgotten, but remembered always with love and joy! Your special spirit lives on in our hearts. Love sent from the Preserns and Smiths, as well, whose lives you touched in a special way. Rest with God, beautiful husband, uncle and friend.
Donna Pineda
December 7, 2018
Greetings to you lovely souls also remembering Ron! It warms my heart that you think of him too! Peace and Joy to you this Advent Season and Christmas - it was his favorite time of the year (although one might argue the Nationals were up there on the list, too. :) )
December 6, 2018
When I think of Ron, and he does come to mind every so often, I remember his warm and friendly nature. He was a dear friend to our family and a wonderful supervisor of the Hunters Point Teen Club. He is missed. Happy Holidays Donna! I hope you are doing well.
December 6, 2018
Thinking of Ron & what a great person. We miss him so much especially this time of year! Lillian & Allan
December 6, 2018
Even after the passage of years, I miss Ron's visits to Champaign. We had great chats about wrestling, antiques and memories of our undergraduate years at the U of I. DanMc
Donna Pineda
December 5, 2018
You are remembered with love!
December 21, 2016
Thank you so much, Dan and also Barbara for your kind words! Ron always greatly enjoyed his visits and chats with you in Champagne! And, Barbara you know you held a special place in his heart, reserved only for Blairs! Hope our paths cross again....
Wishing both you a blessed Christmas with your families! Donna
Barbara Blair
December 19, 2016
Thinking of you and Ron this holiday season. Ron's warm smile and beautiful heart will always be remembered. Love to you.
Dannel McCollum
December 19, 2016
Donna: We never met, but I was a good friend of Ron's during his undergrad years at the U of I. We both loved wrestling--he was good, I wasn't, but that did but that did not matter. Every time he was in Champaign we got together. It is nice to have the opportunity to renmember him.
December 18, 2016
Thinking of you this Christmas, with great love and missing you, as so many friends do, too. God bless your beautiful soul. It was a dream to have had your love....in sweet remembrance, Donna.
Dick
February 12, 2014
As a friend and a fellow employee of the Air Force I think about Ron almost everyday. This earth misses him but the kingdom has such an outstanding spirit.
February 12, 2014
And he was so blessed to have you as his bride! Such great memories of a very very special and delightful man, and of you - had you two not met, we wold never have met. Stay in touch!
Donna Pineda
February 11, 2014
It seems like yesterday that you were with us, laughing and joking and making children smile. Only now I realize that your very special quality was the work of the Holy Spirit and as each day passes I realize more and more what a great gift God had given to me in putting you in my life! God Bless your beautiful soul and keep you always by His side. Deepest Love from my heart - until we meet again....Donna
Dannel McCollum
June 27, 2012
I met Ron upon his arrival at the University of Illinois. We both had jobs as students with the Athletic Association which were available to the minor sport guys. After graduation, we lost track of each other, but beginning in the '80s, Ron called and we managed to get together almost every time he was in Champaign. I will miss those times; Ron was a good friend.
john mueller
April 24, 2012
I fondly remember Ron as a highschool classmate and was so impressed with the man he had become at our 50th reunion. I am greatly saddened that he has left us.
Ron & Susan James
March 3, 2012
We were saddened to hear of Ron's passing. He had such a
kind and generous spirit. He was a friend to everyone and
we will miss him.
Betty and Dick Johnson
March 2, 2012
The passing of Ron is a great loss to all his family, friends and those that worked with him. Ron was an outstanding manager with the MWR program at Mather AFB and many other locations. It was my pleasure to work with him at Mather AFB.
Mike Gallego
February 29, 2012
Ron was a great friend to all who knew him. I will miss his laugh, his straight forward approach, and his enthusiam for wrestling. Ron was the ultimate organizer whether it be bringing friends together as family or perpetuating the sport of wrestling if not both at the same time. It was an honor to be Ron's friend, I will miss him. My deepest sympathies to Donna and all his family.
cathy whitten
February 27, 2012
Ron was my first cousin, I did not have the opportunity to know him while I was growing up, but, I remember my father, his uncle Marcus going to visit him. I took a chance and phoned Ron after my father passed and without question nor hesitation, did Ron soon arrive to assist me with funeral arrangements. He stayed by my side until the arrangements were made, and he was back early in the morning the day of the funeral, and he brought our aunt from Illinois to visit my father's grave. He opened his and Donna's home to me and two of my children for a WONDERFUL visit, I am sorry it would be the only one. Prayers with you Donna, and prayers for the Martinez family..Ron was oviously loved by so many, I am proud to have had you in my life...
Irene Martinez
February 27, 2012
Donna,
Please accept my condolences during this time on the passing of your husband. My prayers are with you. God Bless you and family.
February 26, 2012
As a member of the Sterling wrestling team I remember when Ron would come back and visit SHS. He would be in the wrestling room when you got there after school. John Kreiders remarks reminded me that Ron worked out with those in his weight class but he also would workout with anyone regardless of weight. I have a mental picture of Ron working with Dave Lockhart (he had to be 225 lbs at the time!
Also, when Ron visited, Homer Musgrove was all smiles.
These are good memories.
Les Johnson '58
Jack Fernandez
February 24, 2012
It was always a pleasure meeting with Ron at our annual wrestling reunion. He was a real ambassador for our sport. Beyond that, Jacque and I found Ron to be a pleasure to be around.
Dale Deffner
February 24, 2012
The news of Ron was a real shock. He was such a vibrant person. Ron was a true ambassador of the sport whether as a wrestler, coach and friend - a genuine crusader for wrestling. He was an inspiration to be around and his enthusiasm was infectious. He was a man with a lot of history, touching lots of people. I am fortunate to have known him. He will be missed. We have lost a real champion. Our condolences go out to Donna and the Pineda family.
Barbara Blair
February 24, 2012
There are some people who shine brightly in their lives and Ron Pineda was truly one of them. He was a lovely man. His bouyant spirit and caring way was a blessing to all who knew him. He was very kind and helpful to me when I was a teenager working for Special Services at Hunters Point in the seventies. He was so supportive following the death of my dad. More recently, Ron called my home while I was at work. When I came home that night I was told that a very engaging man had called and a wonderful conversation ensued That was Ron. Engaging. He will be missed. Much love to Donna and Ron's family and many friends.
Brent Anderson
February 23, 2012
Ron will be missed greatly by all the lives he has touched, his energy and infectious smile will truly be missed
Joe Corso
February 23, 2012
Ron Pineda was a good friend of mine. He brought joy and laughter each time he entered a room. The man had a lot of great stories and made friends with everyone, where ever he went. He lived and enjoyed life to the fullest. It was a great experience knowing Ron and having him as my friend. I am blessed to know someone who loved others more than himself. You will be missed buddy!
fran mccann
February 23, 2012
Ron was a great friend to the McCann family from the early days in Chicago and Cal.Ron will be missed wrestling lost a great one. Fran McCann
Stephen Hill
February 22, 2012
Sorry to hear of the passing of Ron. We really had some fun times at SHS and the U of I.
Our thoughts to all the family.
Steve Hill (Class of '58)
Neil & Jean Richmond
February 22, 2012
We had the honor of meeting Mr. Pineda a few years ago at a Sterling (IL) High School Wrestling Banquet. What a truly exceptional man! He was thrilled to be honoring that year's wrestlers and to be "back home". Our deepest sympathy to Mr. Pineda's family and friends.
February 22, 2012
Ron and the Pineda family were favorities of my father Lloyd Casey, Sr. Although, he did not coah wrestling, when I got into it, he embrased it and encouraged me, my brothers David and Dan to ecell in a fine sport and to be like Ron.
Lloyd Casey, Jr.
Leonard Shull
February 22, 2012
What a great inspiration, a heart of GOLD! We will miss you, but you will always be in our hearts!
Robert Gonzales
February 22, 2012
Robert M. & Brenda C. Gonzales & our family Jennifer Ibarra,Heather, & Tyler Gonzales are all sadden by the death of Ron Pineda. Ron s nephew Dax Pineda had been dating our Daughter Heather for the past two years. We had a wonderful susprise visit by Ron & his wife Donna last June. Ron had been to the NWHOF & M National Banquet in Stillwater, Oklahoma. He stopped in Topeka via his drive back to California. He left me pictures and signed autographs of Rulon Gardner, Cael Sanderson, & Mike Duroe. It was honor to have Ron and Donna in our home for those two hours. He had set up for Me, Tyler and Dax to be at the NCAA in St.Louis and stay with him and Coach Bill Farrell. He also was going to introduce me to Yojo Uetake and others. Ron --RIP. From a Kansas Wrestling family. Robert 35 years, Jenny & Heather Mat Maids, Tyler is an assistant at Colby Community College and Brenda was a former wrestling cheerleader. So we loved your passion and You will always be remembered her in our State. RMG
Charles Rodman
February 21, 2012
I met Ron through my friend Gerry Pamp in the early 60's when I used to work out at the Olympic Club in San Francisco. Ron was always a fun guy to hang around with and San Francisco was a great place to be at that time. I have many wonderful memories. Later on I would regularly bump into Ron at the various wrestling tournaments we attended. I will miss Ron and his cheerful companionship, and extend my sincere condolences to Donna and to Ron's family.
Kevin Couper
February 21, 2012
Our condolences go out to Ron's family. His passing is a huge loss for the California wrestling community. Like many others I benefited from his involvement in the Bay Area Wrestling Association and support for the sport at every level. He was such a positive and enthusiastic individual you couldn't help but think you had just become re-acquainted with a long lost friend the first time you met him. He will be sorely missed.
Kevin Heller
February 21, 2012
Donna, the Sterling Wrestling Team sends it's deepest condolences to you and your family. It was such a joy to have him back each year for the awards banquet. The young men on the team loved to hear his stories when he wrestled for the Golden Warriors! Our team was very saddened to hear the news and we thought of him often while we were competing in the individual Illinois State Championship this past weekend. May he rest in peace and his memory live forever.
Coach Heller
February 20, 2012
I too wish to express my sadness. I new Mr. Pineda from the start up days of "The Bay Area Wrestling Association" I was just 15 but very glad for those who cared so much about wrestling, giving all wrestlers a place to compete. I too was a member of the SF Olympic Club. Mr. Pineda will truley be missed. Steve Whedbee, Fairfield,CA
Lynn and Kevin Wilson
February 20, 2012
I just want to get in line to express our sadness as I know so many will. We will miss Ron dearly. We didn't even know him all that well or for all that long, but it felt like we had know him forever! It just won't be the same not seeing him at every major wrestling event. We're so glad we got spend a few minutes with him at the Cliff Keen this past December.
Scott Kitchen
February 20, 2012
So very sorry to hear about Ron.. He was a true student of the sport and a great asset to the Air Force teams when I was there. I always looked forward to running into Ron at the NCAA tournament every year and chatting about "everything wrestling"... he will be missed!
February 19, 2012
Just want you all to know that I am reading these guest book entries and am very moved by your words, as I'm sure Ron would have been. It is healing to hear how he has touched the lives of others, and thank you so much for sharing your memories of him.
Sincerely - Donna
Russ Salazar
February 19, 2012
I am priveleged to have known and admired Ron for almost thirty-five years. Ron was Mr. Midtown and a great social organizer. He knew how to make people laugh and be happy. He loved children and dogs too. He will be missed terribly. My heartfelt sympathy to Donna and Family.
February 19, 2012
Ron was my Dad's best friend for many years. When my Mom died, Ron visited my Dad every day and sat with him and watched TV, or he would share his golf score after a round. Everyone should be so blessed to have a friend like Ron. Ron was very sad when my Dad died. Donna said she felt Ron was so used to seeing Dad on a daily basis that after my Dad was gone, Ron missed his visits very much.
Always smiling and in a good mood, Ron loved people, and could talk to anyone. He made, and kept, many good friends over the years. My heart is very sad that he is gone. Janet Grisanti
Lillian & Allan
February 19, 2012
Oh, how we miss his cheerful exuberant friendship. We are thankful to have known him. Sincere Sympathy to the family, friends & community for the loss.
Lillian & Allan
February 19, 2012
Oh, how we miss his cheerful exuberant friendship. We are thankful to have known him. Sincere Sympathy to the family, friends & community for the loss.
Pancho Manriquez
February 18, 2012
Ron was a great man because he cared so much for the sport of wrestling. He was a part of wrestling because it was something he could depend on. If I ever needed anything I knew that I could depend on Ron. He gave me great advice as a UC Davis wrestler. I am honored to have been a part of his life. I will never forget his words.
John Kreider
February 18, 2012
Ron and I were on the same wrestling team at Sterling, Illinois. He was a Senior when I was a Junior. Because we were nearly the same weight, Homer Musgrove, our coach, would have me work out with Ron. At first I would swear under my breath as there was no way I could come close to taking him down or reversing him. However, I learned a lot from Ron and the experience he gave me. Ron you were special. Your wrestling talents, coaching talents and your support to wrestling will be missed. Rest in Peace as you certainly have earned it. John Kreider
Dan Gable
February 18, 2012
Really admired Ron and feel very fortunate to have spent some close time with him and Donna in the last few years.
Brenda Hobbs
February 18, 2012
So very sorry to hear of Ron's passing.
my deepest sympathy
February 18, 2012
I loved running into Ron on N Street walking any dog he could con the owner into letting him walk. And will always remember how he went over to the new Buckhorn Grill every day after it opened to help his friend John in any way he could. We all loved him. My prayers are with you Donna as you have lost your best friend.
Cynthia
Margot Blair
February 18, 2012
A great loss to the wrestling community along with the Blair family! All our kids loved Ron! Looking forward to seeing Donna and Ron at the wedding of Kristen Blair and Eric Guerrero - but from heaven he will be looking down with others who hoped to be there like Ed Peery, Pete Blair and now Ron! What a threesome! Love ya Ron, you will be missed by all the Blairs along with all your friends!
David Kreider
February 18, 2012
1957 Sterling, Illinois: Ron would come back to Sterling High School, his HS alma mater, from the Univ of Illinois and work out with me on the mats as a freshman. Wow, he was tough. Ron was an inspiraton to all. I have many cherished memories with Ron. The wrestling community has lost a dedicated, hard working champion that always gave of his time and talent. Ron you will be missed. David
Keith Ellis
February 18, 2012
Ron will always be remembered as someone who was a true leader and a person who lived his life to the fullest. Ron helped me continue my wrestling career after I joined the Air Force. When I was reassigned to Rhein-Main AB Germany Ron became Recreational Sports Director there. Having a coach and mentor of Ron's caliber during those days helped me achieve many athletic milestones and develop as a person. I was honored to know Ron and I am saddened by his passing. I hope we all remember Ron for his humanity and love of life. I wish his family peace during this very difficult time.
February 17, 2012
Great man. Great loss. Marco Sanchez
Don Erb
February 17, 2012
Ron helped make my navy wrestling and football experience very special in 1966 and 1967 in the bay area. It has been two years since we talked and I hoped to see him this summer. Thanks for the memories Ron. We all will miss you.
Ron Finley
February 17, 2012
Ron was a true fan of wrestling. He was a great teammate and traveled all over just to see a great match or meet.
Jeff Sato
February 17, 2012
Ron was always really great and nice to me especially during my time at Univeristy of California Davis. if anyone can get back to me such as a family member one how to contact his family via email, phone number etc, please email and contact me as soon as possible. I really appreciate that and hope that everyone is ok. My best wishes
[email protected]
[email protected]
David Jack
February 17, 2012
Ron made my day every time I saw him.....He was a great wrestling fan and a true gentleman
February 17, 2012
Donna,
We are so sorry to read about Ron's passing. Frank and I and Scott send you our deepest sympathy and condolences. Frank, Nina and Scott
julie Anderson Larson
February 17, 2012
Ron will certainly be missed by all that knew him. He was one of the most wonderful men I have ever met. I loved being around him. He always had a great story to tell. RIP Ron, my condolences to you Donna, he will be missed.
Showing 1 - 67 of 67 results
Make a Donation
in Ron PINEDA's name
Memorial Events
for Ron PINEDA
How to support Ron's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Ron PINEDA's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
