Ronald William Drathman

1942 - 2014

Ronald William Drathman, 71, died Thursday, Feb. 27, 2014 in Homer.
Ron was born in Cleveland, Ohio on Aug. 13, 1942 to Raymond and Mary (Mienke) Drathman. At 13, he moved to Phoenix. A bit of a rebel, Ron dropped out of school at 17 and joined the Navy. He served aboard the Intrepid, and had many adventures in the Mediterranean. After being discharged, Ron went to Arizona State and spent six years in class and working in Alaska, flying for Merrill Flight Service and working on the Alaska Railroad. Upon obtaining his degree, he attended Stetson University College of Law, obtaining his Jurist Doctorate in 1973.
In 1966, Ron married Leslie Coppins and in 1971 son, Zachary was born. In 1973, Ron returned to Alaska and worked as State Public Defender. He established a thriving practice with Phillip Weidner and other notable attorneys. In 1982, Ron married Susan Bashaw. In 1984 Ron moved his family, including daughter Alexandra to Homer, which would hold a special place in Ron's heart. Two and a half years later they celebrated the arrival of their son, Max, making the family complete.
Ron was an ardent fan of his children's sports including football, volleyball, hockey, soccer, and baseball. Attending nearly every game, he coached and managed Alex's baseball team until 1999, and was a four term president of Little League, organizing many events.
Ron also served in local government and sat on a number of boards and commissions. He served on the Borough Assembly until 1999; two years as Board President. He was a member of the Alaska Municipal League from 1993 until 2002, serving on and chairing many committees. In recognition for his service, Ron was awarded a lifetime membership in the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Kenai Aerie 3525. In 1999, he became the City Manager of Homer, a job he found challenging and rewarding. Two of his major accomplishments included locating funds for port and harbor upgrades, seeing it to completion and drafting and leading the city's annexation project.
Service was important to Ron. From his time in the Navy to his time as City Manager, Ron endeavored to be a positive influence in the community. He successfully imparted this to his children, who are employed in public service to their communities.
Ron is survived by Susan Drathman; son, Zachary (Kelly) Drathman; son, Max Drathman; daughter, Alex (George) McGuan; grandsons Leif, Parker, and Quinn Drathman; brother, David (Beth) Drathman; sister, Kathy (Chris) Knoth; many nieces, great nieces and nephews, and friend, Tim Navarre, who has been a tremendous support to us all during Ron's illness. We also extend our gratitude to Sandra Wallace and Michelle Arno who provided dedicated and loving care.
A memorial service will be on Wednesday, March 5 at 4 p.m. at the Homer Elks Lodge. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Little League of Homer or to the charity of your choosing.
Please visit Ron's obituary and online guestbook at www.alaskanfuneral.com.