Ronald Ray Stevenson

RONALD RAY STEVENSON

Decorated Air Force Pilot and Devoted Family Man

October 26, 1943 – April 27, 2025

Ronald Ray Stevenson, a decorated U.S. Air Force veteran, beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, in Bakersfield, California.

Born on October 26, 1943, in Yukon, Oklahoma, he was preceded in death by his parents, Reuben and Doris Stevenson. He was also preceded by his siblings, Michael Stevenson, John Edward Stevenson and Sandra Zickefoose.

Ron is survived by his loving wife, Dolores. In 1966 Ron married Dolores at Good Shepherd Church in Beverly Hills, California. Their marriage, shared a deep love, mutual respect, laughter, love of travel, companionship, and the loving family they built would span nearly six decades.

He is also survived by his and Dolores' three children and their spouses, Eric Stevenson, Ingrid and David Kaiser, and Karen and Jeff Simpson: four grandchildren, Meghan Colton, Zachary Kaiser, Blake Muxlow and Grace Simpson: plus, special family members Rae, Sean and Christine Sesanto and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. His family was his greatest source of pride, love and joy, he cherished every moment spent with them, especially in his retirement years when he could be more present in the lives of his grandchildren.

Ron earned a B.A. from Loyola University in 1966. Shortly after, he began a distinguished military service as a pilot in the United States Air Force. During the Vietnam War he flew as a Forward Air Controller and also B-52s as an aircraft commander and was decorated for his valor and skill, receiving several Distinguished Flying Cross awards and numerous air medals. His service was marked by courage and professionalism.

After leaving the military, Ron enjoyed a successful career in retail management. He led with fairness, integrity, and a genuine care for those around him, which left a lasting impression on colleagues and customers alike.

A surfer throughout his youth and an admirer of the sport in his later years, Ron found peace in the ocean and joy in the simple pleasures of life. He had an innocent, enduring sense of humor that lit up every room; his joke often entertaining himself as much as everyone else.

Ron leaves behind a legacy of service, love and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

A service to celebrate Ron's life will be at Bakersfield National Cemetery on June 6, 2025 at 10:00 AM.

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