Ronald Atwood

Ronald Clemont Atwood peacefully passed away from his long battle of liver disease on September 24, 2023 surrounded by his family. He was a man of immeasurable talent, unwavering dedication, and a heart full of service and love. Born on July 26, 1945, in Price, Utah, Ron was the cherished eldest son of Clemont Antone and Leora Mae Atwood, and his life's journey was one marked by incredible achievements and extraordinary experiences that led to some of the most amazing stories enjoyed by anyone that heard them.
From a young age, Ron exhibited remarkable athleticism, earning the title of High School All-American athlete as he excelled in basketball and baseball and was also crowned king of the Sweetheart Ball. He attended the College of Eastern Utah, where he became the sophomore class president and the most preferred man on campus. His insatiable thirst for knowledge led him to Brigham Young University, where he earned two bachelor's degrees in secondary education and engineering.
Ron's true passion was music. His musical journey began in the 4th grade when he started playing the Tonette. His parents recognized his musical talent and gave him an alto saxophone in the 6th grade. Ron's musical talent proved to be a life-saving achievement. Before completing his two degrees, his education was placed on pause as he was drafted in January 1970 during the Vietnam War. He initially joined the Army Helicopter Pilot Program and received his pilot's license. However, after the tragic loss of a fellow soldier over Cambodia, Ron took the initiative to reconsider his path. He seized an opportunity to change his MOS status to a musician, successfully passing an audition in Colorado Springs and joined the United States Army Band traveling throughout Europe on various assignments during his military career.
Ron's professional life was a testament to his versatility and determination. He was an incredibly hard worker and supported his growing family as a masterful welder and steel fabricator. The skills he learned in that trade coupled with the engineering education and his sheer grit and unmatched work ethic over the years ultimately led him to venture into entrepreneurship by starting his successful business, Jordan River Galvanizing, in 2000. He built that dream from the ground up and was truly a master of all trades.
In his personal life, Ron's fate took a beautiful turn when he met Mary Naylor when he was 19 years old. Their chance encounter at a gas station ignited a love story that would span nearly 59 years. Ron and Mary were sealed on December 18, 1969, in the Salt Lake Temple, embarking on a journey filled with love, faith, and devotion. No father has ever been loved more completely or fiercely as Ron is by his eight adoring daughters. He was their superman who showered them with wisdom, love, and protection. Ron was once told that he was going straight to heaven because he had already gone through hell raising those ladies. He was an incredible father.
Ron's commitment to his faith and community was unwavering. He served an LDS mission in Scotland from 1963-1965 under the guidance of Egbert J. Brown and David B. Haight, where he also served as President Haight's assistant. His dedication to his beliefs extended beyond his missionary work. For 19 years Ron served as a counselor in bishoprics, as a bishop, and as a counselor in the Orem Park Stake Presidency. His service and knowledge of the gospel brought immense blessings to those he served as he mentored many and was a pillar of spiritual strength to all, especially his beloved family.
Ron's enduring legacy lives on in the hearts of his loving wife, Mary, and his 8 girls, Michelle Kearns, Tiffany (Brant) Jones, Candice (Bruce) Gardner, Heidi (Ryan) Sorenson, Tennille (Brandon) Smith, Tina Holdaway, Heather (Travis) Bandle, and Jessica (Ray) Palmer. His 31 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren (with 3 more on the way) will forever remember the giant of a man he was for his family and the many stories he shared. Ron also leaves behind his brothers, Brent, Gary, and Bruce, with whom he shared many wonderful memories. He is now reunited with his parents and three sisters who preceded him in death. His memory will forever be cherished and his contributions to his community, country, industry, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched will never be forgotten.
A viewing will be held on Friday, September 29th from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and Saturday, September 30th from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at Nelson Family Mortuary located at 4780 N. University Ave, Provo, Utah 84604. Following the Saturday viewing, funeral services will begin at 12:00 p.m. in the same location. The interment will be held at the Orem Cemetery located at 1520 N 800 E, Orem, Utah 84097.