Ronald Nepstead

1948 - 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald R. (Ron) Nepstead, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, on October 25, 2025, after a brave fight with a debilitating disease. Ron was 77.

Those who knew Ron will remember him as a quiet, kind, and gentle soul who loved the outdoors and was committed to staying active.

Ron was born and raised in Sacramento and graduated from C.K. McClatchy High School in 1966. He earned his degree in Industrial Technology from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, where he met the love of his life, Pam, whom he married in 1973. The enduring friendships forged during his time at Cal Poly remained a significant part of his life.

He began his career at Hughes Aircraft Company in the Los Angeles area. After five years, he returned to Sacramento to join UC Davis Medical Center, where he oversaw many large facility projects during the center's expansion. This move allowed Ron and Pam to start their family near relatives, which was deeply important to him. Seven years later, Ron was hired by Aerojet, where he enjoyed a long, successful, and rewarding career until his retirement in 2012.

Ron's family was the most precious part of his life. Throughout his years, he shared his love of the outdoors with them. In 1981, Ron and Pam purchased a cabin in Lake Tahoe, which became a favorite retreat and the source of countless happy memories-from waterskiing and wakeboarding to skiing on the mountain. A highlight was climbing Mount Tallac, the highest mountain in Lake Tahoe at the age of 61 with his daughters and future sons-in-law. Ron also enjoyed time spent with his family and friends on Folsom Lake and the Sacramento Delta.

A lifelong passion for travel led Ron to plan many adventures. In 2011, the family took a very important trip to Norway to discover their heritage, visiting a remote village (Vang Valdres) and staying on land once owned by the Nepstead (Nefstad) family. After retiring, Ron and Pam bought a trailer and extensively explored the U.S. and Canada. They also enjoyed numerous cruises all over the world. His most special cruise was one celebrating his and Pam's 50th wedding anniversary in 2023, joined by their daughters and their families.

Ron was blessed with four beautiful grandchildren who adored their "Grandpa." They enjoyed spending time with him in Tahoe and camping on the beautiful Central Coast of California.

Ron is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Pam; his daughters, Nicole Spangler (Josh) and Carissa Belmont (Paul); and his four cherished grandchildren, Kayla Rose, Elias, Samantha (Sammy), and Robert (Robby).

We are heartbroken that Ron is no longer with us, but his legacy of kindness, adventure, and optimism lives on through his family. We are grateful for all the adventures shared over the years.

A private celebration of life was held in his honor with family and close friends. Donations may be made in memory of him to the Parkinson Association of Northern California (www.panctoday.org).