Ronald L. Ridenour

Ronald "Ron" Ridenour was born on January 8, 1942, in Hermiston, Oregon, to Virgil L. and Velna Ridenour.

He was the second of five children, joining his older sister Donna, and later welcoming brothers Robert, Larry, Dennis (who passed in infancy) and Marvin. From a young age, Ron was known for his mischievous curiosity, kindness, and sense of responsibility. He was deeply devoted to his family, always watching over his siblings and helping his mother with anything she needed.

Ron began working at the age of twelve, bucking hay and bussing tables. His strong work ethic and reliability became hallmarks of his character throughout his life. After graduating from high school in Boise in 1960, he worked locally for two years before marrying his high school sweetheart, Camille Leonard, on February 10, 1961. Together, they built a marriage that lasted more than sixty-four years, marked by love, humor, and unwavering partnership.

Ron and Camille raised two daughters, Melanie and Julie, and together they shared countless adventures as a family. Whether camping, fishing, or simply spending time together, Ron's joy came from being with those he loved.

Early in his career, Ron was in the Air National Guard for 12 years while he worked at the first Kentucky Fried Chicken in Boise before joining the Boise Fire Department, where he served for seven years. His sense of duty and courage as a Fireman and Guardsman reflected the same spirit of service he carried throughout his life.

Following his time with the fire department, Ron pursued higher education as a nontraditional student. He attended Boise Junior College and later transferred to Utah State University in Logan, Utah, where he completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Fisheries Management. His time in Logan became an adventure for the whole family, as Ron balanced school, parenting, and countless family activities with enthusiasm and dedication.

After graduation, Ron began a new chapter as a fish biologist, working at the Avoca Fish Hatchery and managing Monroe Reservoir in Indiana. He served there for seven years before returning with his family to Boise when Camille accepted a new position. Back in Idaho, Ron transitioned careers again, becoming a truck driver like his father. For the next twenty years, he traveled the highways with professionalism and pride until his retirement.

Outside of work, Ron's passions reflected his boundless curiosity and mechanical skill. He was a classic car enthusiast, a problem-solver, and a man who could fix just about anything. His love for cars, craftsmanship, and hard work was matched only by his generosity and dependability. Ron was always willing to lend a hand to friends, neighbors, and strangers alike.

Ron was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He is survived by his beloved wife, Camille; daughter Melanie (Jason) Wills; sister Donna (Frank) Adcock; grandchildren Darcy Patton (Branden Nevers), Veronica Duarte (Alex), Joe Wills (Mary), Alysha Ridenour (Ryan Jackson), Ryan McCallum, (Kara), Sydney Wills (Anna Stobbe) and great-grandchildren: Alex, Braeden, Elliott, Brayden, Gideon, Rowan, Kora, Nayvie, Malachi, Israel, and Hunter.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Robert, Larry, Dennis and Marvin, and his youngest daughter, Julie, whose memory remained a source of both love and strength for the family.

Ron passed away peacefully on October 21, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

He will be remembered as a man of generosity, integrity, and quiet strength. His hands built, his heart guided, and his life touched all who knew him. His legacy lives on in his family, his friends, and the countless lives he enriched simply by being himself.