Roland Dean Cornell

1937 - 2025

Roland Dean Cornell

March 10, 1937 ~

October 8, 2025

Redmond, WA-Roland Dean Cornell-known to all as "Ron"-passed away peacefully at his home in Redmond, Washington on October 8, 2025. He was born on March 10, 1937, in Pontiac, Michigan, to Lewis Amenzo Cornell and Helen Lenore Shambaugh Cornell.

Ron led a life marked by dedication, intellect, and a profound love for his family and the arts. A veteran of the United States Air Force, Ron served his country with honor in from 1954 to 1962. He earned a bachelor's degree in business from Michigan State University in 1958, and his Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter designation in 1968.

Ron dedicated his professional career to the insurance industry, both as an insurance broker and teaching insurance classes at the University of Utah, culminating in his retirement and sale of his insurance agency in 1999.

Beyond his professional life, Ron was actively involved in the community, serving on the boards of the Kiwanis Club of Salt Lake City, Rowland Hall-St. Mark's School, and Christ United Methodist Church. He also served as a Scout Master for Troop 410 of the Boy Scouts and was a member of the Alta Club, and the Salt Lake Country Club.

Ron's true passions lay in the beauty of the outdoors and the richness of culture. He was an avid wilderness hiker, who found peace and challenge on the trails, and a keen traveler who loved exploring the world. He also had a deep appreciation for the finer arts, often attending the Symphony, Opera, and local theater.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Nancy Runyon Cornell, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and companionship through life's many adventures; their three children, Christy Cornell Kunin (John), Bradley Lewis Cornell (Elizabeth), and Bryan Edward Cornell (Joy); his six grandchildren, Michelle Cornell-Davis, Christopher Cornell, Jake Kunin, Christopher Kunin, and Marion Cornell; as well as his younger sister, Gay Ann McDonald. He was preceded in death by both parents and his youngest sister Ellen Cornell Hawkins.

Ron will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He will be remembered for his gentle manner, his wry sense of humor, and deep commitment to those he loved. Ron had a quiet impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him. His memory will live on in the stories shared, the lessons passed down, and the love he instilled in his family.

Ron will be laid to rest in Six Lakes, Michigan. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center or The Salvation Army in Ron's memory.