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Ronda Emerson Obituary
EMERSON, Ronda Jo
(Age 41)
Passed away tragically February 28, 2011 in a snowmobile accident in Montana. Ronda loved life and lived it to the fullest. She had a passion for helping others and contributing to her community. Ronda owned and operated the Otis Grill and loved all her customers. First and foremost she was a loving wife and mother. Ronda's love of horseback riding, snowmobiling and huckleberry picking were renowned. An extremely competitive person she feared nothing. Ronda and Vance's cabin at the Yaak was built with love and a special place for the family. Ronda had a strong faith in God which sustains the family in this sorrowful time. She is survived by her loving husband of 20 years Vance; son Vance Jr; daughter Nicole; stepsons Michael and Justin; parents John (Bev) Klomp and Karen (Ron) Fritz; in-laws Wade (Darlene) Emerson; brother Scott; sister Tammy Ford; stepbrothers Vince and Perry; stepsisters Kellee and Karlyn; brothers-in-law Jesse (Kathy) and Craig (Heather) Emerson; sister-in-law Kristi; numerous nieces and nephews; and countless friends. Celebration of Ronda's life will be held Saturday, March 5, 2011 at 3:00 p.m. at Real Life Ministries, 1831 S. Barker Rd. Please sign Ronda's online guestbook at www.hennesseyfuneralhomes.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to:
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ronda Emerson
Milly Kropp
February 25, 2025
The Otis Grill has never been the same. Ronda will always be remembered. I was close to the Klomp family and most of them have passed. Yes, time waits for no one, but we must continue to be strong & share the good times with our family & friends. May God Bless Ronda's family as they are waiting to be with her someday.
Mare Bainbridge
February 26, 2023
I worked with Ronda. It was a pleasure to work with her . She was always bubbly and positive, beautiful inside and out
Prayers to her family..
Vern Cox
February 24, 2023
Beautiful person taken WAY to soon!!
Kristen Hotchkiss
February 3, 2023
I miss you Aunt Ronda
Milly Kropp
February 24, 2021
Cannot believe it has been 10 yrs
She will always remain young and beautiful in everyone"s memories. So many of her family have since also passed. The entire Klomp family. Her Dad and Aunts and Uncles. All classmates and friends. Miss all of them and thanks for keeping Rhonda's legacy alive.
Kristen Hotchkiss
February 12, 2021
I love you Aunt Ronda...its been almost 10 years and I miss you more and more each day. RyLee would love you and I know you'd adore him ❤ I miss you and hope you're singing in the angels choir
Bettyann Matthews
March 12, 2011
So shocked about the loss of Ronda. She was a very warm and caring person. I will forever remember our times working together at Albertsons. She always had a warm smile and lit up the room and could make me laugh. R.I.P. my beautiful friend and may GOD be with the family in these hard times.
March 10, 2011
to Ronda's family..I don't know any of you. I know Ronda because she was my student in 5th grade. She had a special spirit then and of the many students I had over 40 years of teaching, she was a stand out. I always looked forward to bumping into her at Rosauers. Thirty years ago, I moved away from the valley. A few years ago I bumped into her at the Grill. She spent a lot of time telling me what she had accomplished, She was so proud of you all and of her personal accomplishments. I looked forward to seeing her when I had the opportunity to stop in at the Otis Grill. In fact, when someone wanted to go to breakfast, I would suggest the Grill because of the great food but more because I looked forward to seeing Ronda. She was a true leader..I told her more than once that she ought to run for Mayor. She just laughed but wouldn't she have gotten things in order! She was larger than life. A tragic accident took her from you but she taught you so much. Be all that she would have wanted you to be. Please accept my prayers and best wishes for her and your family. Joyce Bakes Roskelley
Kristi Blackwood
March 7, 2011
I went to high school with Ronda. She was always so friendly and kind to me. I remember her as a very independent person and I really looked up to her for that. I have run into her her quite a few times over the years since then, always to be greeted by her warm smile. I am so saddened to hear of this terrible accident. I have never met her family, but I send my prayers to them during this difficult time.
Colleen
March 6, 2011
My heart goes out to you Vance and family and to John the father of a beautful women. My family enjoyed the happy atmosphere that Ronda provided each time we visited the Grill. 1 Thessalonians 13-18. Blessed Assurance. Colleen Jewell Wendler
Robert Mitchell
March 5, 2011
Robert R. Mitchell
Manuel and Leslie Torrez
March 4, 2011
We had the pleasure of meeting Rhonda for the first time, just a couple of weeks ago in McCall, Idaho. We enjoyed snowmobiling with her (and learning from her)and are so sorry that we won't be able to ride with her again. Vance, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Robert Propp
March 4, 2011
Vance and family, our deepest sympathies go out to you in this time of sorrow. Ronda was always the one to make me laugh back in the days of Rosauers, she was the hardest worker, and a loyal employee, she had a huge heart and would give you her right arm if you needed it. It was great news when we heard that you guys bought the Otis Grill because we new that it would be a huge success. Just know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Our Love, Bob, Vickie, Alicia, and Anthony Propp
Sheryl & Jay Robinson
March 4, 2011
Ronda always had a smile on her face & a kind word to say, made us all laugh with her sense of humor. We feel blessed to have gotten the chance to know her & she will be missed tremendously by us all on the Yaak.
Sheryl & Jay Robinson, Jacki Brummer
March 4, 2011
The Otis Grill & Ronda worked with Newman Lake Fire & Rescue on a few catering occasions. Her friendly smile and helpful nature made the awards event quite easy to arrange. We sincerely hope that her family let their great memories ease the pain.
New Lake Fire & Rescue (SCFD #13)
Tom & Shirley Collins
March 4, 2011
To the beautiful family of Ronda Jo. I only meant her and Vance a couple of times, but almost feel like I know her thru our son, Justin and granddaughter Mallory. They are grieving and in shock that she is gone. They have always talked so highly of Ronda, Vance, and their family, and talked about how kind, generous, and fun they were to be around. Justin has spent many great times snowmobiling with them, and was with them on that tragic day. They also enjoyed many great meals and good times at the Grill. I am so sorry for your loss and hope your memories as a family with help you in the days to come. I know she is looking down from heaven and wants you to stay strong.
March 4, 2011
I am so very sorry for the loss of Ronda.She stayed the same sweet, happy, person that I met 20 years ago. She was, and always will be, very special to me, along with the family. Vance, Vancie, and Nikki, my thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Allene Hynes, Spokane Valley
Darrell & Trevor Naccarato
March 3, 2011
I am very saddened to hear about Ronda. I enjoyed her quick wit and joking manner. Just a few weeks ago my son and I were visiting with her at the restaurant. My heart goes out to the Vance and family for your loss.
March 3, 2011
In loving memory of Rhonda and her love of her family and friends. We went to school with her Dad and all of his famiy so have known them for over 60 years. We always enjoyed going into the Grill and seeing so many familiar and friendly people working and eating there. You were always made to feel welcome and special. It takes a leader to instill that in other people and Rhonda had that ability and she set the example. Her legacy of loving and caring for her family, friends, customers and just ordinary people will last for years to come and will inspire her family and children to care for others the same way. It goes without saying how greatly she will be missed and as a community we can do no less than support her efforts and keep the Grill open. It has become a gathering place. Our love to Johnnie in the loss of his wonderful daughter and to Vance and their children in the loss of his loving wife and children's mother. Rhonda is with our Lord now and surely receiving richly earned blessings. We remember Rhonda as always trying to please everyone, changing her menus and filling in wherever she was needed no matter what else she had to get done. And her big smile and that crazy laugh. Her laugh is just like her Aunt Jo Ann's. We will miss all of that. Thank you, Rhonda, for your love of God, your family and community. And thank you, Vance, for sharing Rhonda with all of us. We know that she is with God and she knows that she was and is loved. Sincerely, Milly & George
Kevin & Colleen Killingsworth
March 3, 2011
I am as shocked too hear that Ronda is not with us anymore and it is a very sad time for all. Too Vance and the kids keep your faith because Rhonda was a good person and she is with God. Our family shares your sadness in this time of sorrow. We all loved eating and visiting with Ronda. When we moved here in 2004 Ronda introduced us to many people who we are friends with today! THANK YOU RONDA! God Bless you and your family.
DEBBIE HEMMERLING
March 3, 2011
vance,little ones i guess there not as little as they were when i watched them. How time flys. Vance im so sorry for your loss.if there is anything i can do please call.life is just to short.she is in heaven watching after you and your babies.she will make sure all of you are taken care of.im so sorry she was taken so early. i guess god needed her she is your angel now.Debbie Hemmerling & Ronald,James
Richard Reeder
March 3, 2011
Ronda is one of those people that you can't help but feel blessed for having known. Ronda touched so many lives by just being herself. Ronda Jo Emerson you are a very special person & will be missed but not forgotten by many many people.
Jayne Singleton
March 3, 2011
Dear Family & Friends of Rhonda,
Such a tragic loss, I hope your memories will, in time, bring you comfort.
I met Rhonda when I first went to the Otis Grill several years ago. I very much appreciated Rhonda's displays of the history of Otis and her willingness to also display brochures from the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum. She also agreed to exchange old photos with the museum. She was kind and friendly and we are all left with wonderful memories and love. My heart goes out to all of the family who have had such a shock. May you find comfort in the knowledge that many people appreciated her happy spirit.
Jayne Singleton Director
Spokane Valley Heritage Museum
Lillian Hoadley
March 3, 2011
Rest in peice Ronda, you will truely be missed
DeeDee and Joe
March 2, 2011
We have been going to Otis Grill for a couple of years now. Ronda was always very nice and came over to the table to visit with us. She will be missed. We are so sorry for the famiy and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.
March 2, 2011
It was very upsetting to hear of Rhonda's unfortunate accident. We have been one of her customers for as long as she had taken over the Otis Grill and made it a wonderful place to relax and enjoy her company as well as her wonderful employees. We are very sadden and send our heart felt sympathy to her family. God Bless you Rhonda, we know you are with all the Angels above watching over us. One of your many Otis Orchards customers.
March 2, 2011
We were deeply saddened to hear of Rhonda's tragic accident. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends. We will miss seeing her beautiful smile whenever we stop at the Otis Grill. We know that Rhonda is up with all the other Angels to watch over us. God Bless. Rich & Flo, Otis Orchards, WA
Ronda Braucht
March 2, 2011
Ronda was my moms best friend through high school. I had the luxary of being named after her. I was truly blessed to have her named as my godmother when I was born. My sympathy goes out to her whole family and everyone else that cared for this terrific woman. Love you and miss you Ronda. You are truly missed.
Debi Hammel
March 2, 2011
Search Light Moms wants to tell you how sorry we are for the passing of your Ronda. If there is anything that we can do for you please let us know. We as mothers understand the day to day pain as we search for answers.
Love and Blessings,
Search Light Moms
www.slmoms.com
Also on Facebook
Kurt & Michele Marsden
March 2, 2011
My wife and I were blessed 8 years ago to meet, and become good friends with Ronda and her family. She was and will always be the most cheerful and colorful woman we have ever met. Her charm brought warmth to our hearts. Our deepest sympathy goes out to you Vance, Vance JR, and Nikki. May god watch over you, and be with you during this trying time. God bless you Ronda, R.I.P. my friend.
Kristen hotchkiss
March 2, 2011
We love you Aunt Ronda!!! <3 Kristen & Allie
March 2, 2011
my thoughts and prayers go out to the family im very sorry for your loss she was a very very special person rest in peace ronda
rick hall
March 2, 2011
my thoughts and prayers go out to the family im very sorry for your loss she was a very very special person rest in peace ronda
Vern Cox
March 2, 2011
I was truly shocked by the news of this unfortunate accident. Ronda was a beautiful, bright, intelligent and caring person with a terrific smile. She will be greatly missed by many. My deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers go out to Vance and the children in this time of healing.
John & Becky Garrison
March 2, 2011
May God grant you his peace and Jesus wrap you in his loving arms during this most difficult time.
Kathy E
March 2, 2011
Just saw her on Valentine's day at Otis Grill, will miss seeing her there and her beautiful smile.Our thoughts and prayers for her family
March 2, 2011
Our deepest sympathy goes out to all Ronda's family
CJ & Carrie Wilkie
March 2, 2011
Very strong and passoniate lady. She will be missed by everyone. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Bonnie Larson
March 2, 2011
May God comfort you and hold you in his arms during this very difficult time. I am so glad I had the pleasure of knowing Ronda and sharing in your dreams. In the arms of Jesus she will watch over you. I am so sorry.
Will & Allison
March 2, 2011
We are patrons of her restaurant and we will miss her smiling face. Her compassion for others was evident with the Thanksgiving dinner offered every year. I will miss driving by the grill and seeing her outside manicuring the garden which is so pretty. Such a tragedy and we are so sorry for her family and friends. Prayers and warm thoughts to all of you in this time of sorrow.
Allison & Will
March 2, 2011
We are patrons of the Otis Grill and spoke to Ronda Jo many times. It was very evident how she loved her customers as is evident in the Thanksgiving dinner every year and the kids eat free Tuesdays. I will miss seeing her smiling face and driving by and seeing her taking wonderful care of the garden outside the grill. You will be missed by many Ronda Jo. Our deepest sympathies to her family and friends.
Tami Holt
March 2, 2011
Ronda was such a strong, vibrant and caring person. Everyone that walked thru the door of the Otis Grill was greeted as a friend not just a patron with her amazing smile! We will miss you, Ronda. Our prayers go out to all of her family and friends.
Chrissy Kunkel
March 2, 2011
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Rhonda.She would always put a smile on your face when you saw her.She will be truly missed up in the Yaak.Our love and prayers go out to Vance and Nicole and the rest of her family.Chrissy & Geoff
chantal drapeau
March 2, 2011
My family would like to send our deepest sympathies to the family of Ronda Jo. We live a few blocks from the Cafe, we were always welcomed with a smile.
Rob & Judi Hill
March 2, 2011
We are so shaken by the news of this tragedy. We have good memories of times spent at her restaurant and experiencing her enthusiasm and hospitality. She will be missed by all. We offer Our heart felt prayers for her family.
Sabrina Fletcher
March 2, 2011
My family has a habit of visiting and not informing people they are in town, every time we were in Liberty Lake we always found ourselves at Albertsons, long before I even realized she was there I would always end up in my cousin Ronda Jo checkout line. For years I saw her a couple times a year remembering my mom speaking to her there, but when the visits became too infrequent I did not realize it was her until I was next in line. She would be speaking to the customer in front of me about her Aunt Jo Ann always coming to town and not telling people she was there. It would always take me a minute and at first I thought how funny it was that her Aunt had the same name as my mom. She would get me every time. Though, I was only able to see the grill once I know how happy and proud the whole family was and still is. I am deeply saddened by your loss Uncle Johnny, Vance, Vance Jr., Nicole, and the rest of the family and dear friends and patrons. She will be truly missed. Love, Sabrina J. Fletcher
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