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Ronald Tree Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Ronald Tree
Cathy Williams
June 30, 2005
One last BIG HUG and a final farewell to one of the greatest men I've had the privledge to know and associate with. A game without a hug from Coach Tree was just not complete. My youngest daughter who is 11 always said, "there HE is mom" and then I would get my hug. Coach you will never know how much you have influenced my whole family. My 3 boys who had the honor and privledge to play for you as well as myself and my husband. We all loved and respected you and your wonderful words of wisdom. My oldest son Clayton was truly inspired by your kind nature and the way you dealt with all the kids on the team. You made sure everyone had self worth with all the weekly quotes that you had students (or players) bring in and then you shared them with everyone. My other two boys Quinton and Trenton did not have you around as long as the rest of my family but they were truly inspired by you and your loving and caring heart. I remember asking you for guidance for my second son and when you gave me your answer I thought you were crazy but I took your advice and guess what? It was probably the best advice I have been given. (And it worked.)
This will be a tough season without you on the field but I believe the boys will carry you in their hearts every single game. I can only hope that this season will be for you now coach because all the other seasons were for "Your Boys."
We Love you and miss you.
Cathy, Bruce, Clayton, Quinton, Trenton and Darci Williams.
Thank you.
Courtney Gressmen
June 8, 2005
Coach Tree was a great friend of mine and one of the first coaches I had a pleasure working with when I started working at the Wasatch Wave. He will forever be one of my favorite coaches (working with or coached by) and he will always remain "MY FRIEND". Coach Tree not only helped me learn more about the game of football, but he helped me grow in so many aspects of life. Thank you Coach Tree for all you have done and may your legacy be in the hearts of many for years and decades to come.
Love, Courtney
Aubree Winn
June 6, 2005
Coach Tree was the greatest! Every morning he would walk into class in a good mood.... I loved Coach Tree, and he helped me out alot. I was going through some hard times, and everymorning he walked into class and it just cheered me up! Choach Tree was our greatest coach and he will be missed dearly.
Being at his funeral was really sad... Just hearing all the stories made me laugh and remember what a great guy he was!!! YOU WILL BE MISSED DEARLY... R.I.P
Charelle Meriwether
June 6, 2005
I only knew coach for the last term of this school year but he touched me in many ways. If it weren't for him I would have never passed Driver's Education. He always made class fun yet at the same time he made sure we learned something. He will be missed so much. I don't know what I am going to do not being able to tell him of all the adventures I have gotten into this summer. Football will never be the same either. But I just want to say I MISS YA COACH!!
Shirley Johnson
June 6, 2005
Working in the BYU football office for a long time, I had many opportunities to interact with Ron. He was always a delight to talk to. We appreciate the person that he is and how well he represented the Cougars.
Sandy Cresswell
June 6, 2005
I met Ron Tree at an LDS singles dance a few years ago; he asked me to dance, and I could sense that he was a kind, gentle man, and a good dancer! We talked on the phone over the next year, and he patiently invited me to come to Heber and to spend time with him. I heard of his passing on the radio news, and after learning more about him, regret that I did not make the time to get to know him better.
Wes Snell
June 6, 2005
I was shocked and saddened to hear of a fellow warrior in the Lord's army,who said his final farewell in mortality earlier than expected. I shall always remember the incredible influence that Elder Tree had upon me some 30 years ago in Belgium. Even though I was never his companion, his 1 day work visits and weekly letters were a great source of inspiration. He was so spiritually mature, knowledgeable, humble and always willing to go the extra mile. His example was so infectuous that it was hard not to have a desire to improve your capabilities. He was one of those special, amazing individuals that leaves an indelable impact on others that is long remembered and revered. Even though I have not had much personal contact with Elder Tree since those cherished days three decades ago, I have thought often of his Christlike example and am grateful for his brief, but powerful influence in my life. I can only imagine what an impact he will have as he labors on the other side.
TOTZIENS (Until we meet again)
Richard Tree
June 5, 2005
THANK YOU! Today is the first opportunity that I have had to read this guest book. Your many words of kindness about Ron brought a tear to my eye. Thank you for blessing his life with your kindness and his passing with your compassion.
Julie Peterson Tubbs
June 5, 2005
Dear Richard and family~
I, like so many others, was shocked and saddened to hear of Ron's passing at such an early age. Mankind has lost a good man but heaven has gained a better one.
You can always be proud of your brother.
With Sincere Sympathy, Julie
Marjean (Provost) Garowski
June 3, 2005
Richard, Roger, and Randy,
At this very difficult time I want you to know that all of you are in my thoughts and prayers. It is a pleasure to have known Ron as a classmate and friend. Ron and your entire family have been a great influence for good on our little community. Your parents were wonderful people and influenced many of us as well. I'm grateful that my oldest daughter was able to run track under "Coach" Ron Tree. He was always so good and encouraging with her (as he was with all his students) - she was able to enjoy him as a Driver's Ed Teacher as well and thoroughly loved that experience. Please know that our thoughts and prayers and love are with all of you at this time. Thanks for the memories and the wonderful people that you are. We love you.
Jane Broadhead
June 3, 2005
My family was so sorry to hear of Ron's passing. He was a great friend, neighbor, and coach. He inspired many and will be missed.
Paulette Thurber
June 2, 2005
Ron was a wonderful person. His passing is a huge loss to this community. My prayers are with the family.
Jeff Payne
June 2, 2005
Coach Tree's first year coaching was my Junior Year at Viewmont, which was my third High School. He taught values and integrity, and some how managed to add Wrestling, Football, and Drivers Ed. in there too. Over 20 years ago I moved to the Hever Valley, and got the blessing of working with him in Scouting, at the school, and having casual chats on the street. My children were coached in life by him, and in football and drivers ed. He's been a blessing in my life, and I miss him. I look forward to seeing Coach Tree again. (I never could just call him Ron) Viewmont class of '78
Clayton Williams
June 1, 2005
I'll miss you coach. Thank you for everything you taught me.
Douglas Bills
June 1, 2005
Dear Family,
On behalf of the Utah Football Coaches Association,and myself I would like to express our deep sorrow in the passing of Ron. He was always a gentleman and an example to all. We will miss him.
With Love from all the Coaches.
Respectfully,
Coach Douglas Bills
Bob Hudson
June 1, 2005
Goodbye, my friend. I'll miss seeing you at track meets.
Bob Hudson
Tyler Sabey
June 1, 2005
Wasatch will be able to find another coach and teacher but Wasatch will never be able to find another Coach Tree!!! Coach thank you so much for the life that you lived and for the hearts you have touched. You are a one of a kind, I hope one day I can be half the man you were. It was always impossible to turn you down so I am sure that you will be great on the other side and I know that the Lord needs you, but you will surely be missed coach!
Love-Sabey
Kim Carling
June 1, 2005
As a young boy I had the fortune to room with a group of boys from Heber,that is where I first meet Ron. What a great role model he always talked about heber. He also coached my brother at Viewmont high, and was with us in the movie Takedown. I WILL TRULY MISS MY FRIEND!!!
Syndi Cummings
June 1, 2005
Our prayers are with you all in your time of loss. Coach Tree was an wonderful and amazing man and my family was so lucky to have had him as a teacher and Drivers Ed Instructor. He made such a difference in my childrens lives. I had an Exchange student from Norway (Marte)and he really took her under his wing and made sure she had a wonderful experience during the school year. She simply loved him. We will always be grateful for his kindness and friendship. He will be forever missed in this community, because there will never be another Coach Tree.
Kody Clyde
June 1, 2005
It has been a great pleasure knowing Coach Tree in several settings. He was my drivers ed teacher, later my colleague at Wasatch High School, 1st counselor in the bishopric in my ward and my neighbor. I had the opportunity of serving in the bishopric with him as a clerk. I saw Christ every time I was around Brother Tree. He truly lived his religion, whether he was at church, on the football field, or in faculty meetings. I don't know of many people he has not touched for good. He will truly be missed. As hard as it is to be without him, I say "Good for you Coach! You left on top of your game! Enjoy your retirement. You've earned it!"
Love,
Kody
Carl Day
June 1, 2005
Although I never had the experience of going to school with Coach Tree his example of dealing with our youth educated me in a very positive way. I know that the young people he dealt with loved and respected him. Through the respect that the students showed toward him to us at Day’s Market I learned what a great person he was. We employ many of the youth that attend Wasatch High School and we know when a teacher or leader affects someone’s life.
You will be missed, but your legacy will live on within each of us who had the opportunity to be associated with you.
Carl Day
And
The Day’s Market Family
Brenda Medler
June 1, 2005
What a loss of such a great guy. He always told me my son Cody would go far and play at a higher level. So true and with alot of great guidance and love from this man I do have a gentle giant at home. but look out on the football field. that is what I really appreciate from this man. He made real men out of these boys. It makes me sad my other son Cayden will not get the chance to learn and grow from such a wonderful man. thanks coach Tree.just another footballmom
Destanie (Emerson) Petro
June 1, 2005
You was a great teacher.....may your memories live forever in all the students you taught! We will all miss you very much.
Gary, Juanita, Crystal, William, Dawn Giles
June 1, 2005
We were all very saddened to hear of the loss of this great man. As a member of our bishopric he showed and walked the path we should all strive to follow. Never was there a negative word out of his mouth. He found the positive in all things! This man is an example of God's finest that I was proud to have my children look up to. His spirit will be deeply missed at church, in the school and in our community. I hope more of us strive to be the kind of individual he was. I have no doubt there was a great celebration on the other side as he was told "Job well done son".
Keith Jolley
June 1, 2005
Coach Tree was one of the first people to extend a hand of friendship when I first moved to Heber in 1988 to start my teaching/coaching career. I had a blast coaching Track with Ron. He showed me how to treat kids with respect and dignity while nudging them on to greatness. This world is truly a better place because of the life he lived. We planned on meeting in Sacramento at the NCAA track championships in a few weeks. He'll have good seats.
Lonnie Magnusson
June 1, 2005
Thankyou Ron, for being a great example to me and my children. You care more about people than wins and loses. you have blessed us all.
Lon
Chris Pella
June 1, 2005
As a fellow football coach I had the opportunity to be associated with Coach Tree through recruiting, football camps, and clinics. The saying; "when you give of yourself, you grow as a person" truly describes Coach Tree. His willingness to go the extra mile to ensure success for his students and athletes will always be a characteristic deeply appreciated by those he has touched and influenced in this life. His friendship and compassion will have a lasting impression on all of us and will be extremely missed.
Chris Pella
Former Coach BYU/USU
Elliott Phillips
June 1, 2005
You'll always be our Coach - thanks for the example, direction, and inspiration in life.
Karri & Doug Oldham
June 1, 2005
Although our kids were involved in other sports besides football and track, they had nothing but good things to say about Coach Tree, and how enthusiastic he was at every game that he attended. He was always there, cheering on the team, no matter the place, time or conditions. We saw him numerous times at softball games, out in Vernal, during the cold, rainy games of spring, cheering for the girls and showing his support. We always saw him at the gym, cheering and yelling for the basketball teams. He was always willing to lend his support for the kids.
As parents of recent High School graduates, we would like to say a very heartfelt "Thank You", not only for being a great teacher, but a great man that our young kids, as well as all the other kids, could look up to and try to emulate. Coach, you set a lofty example, one that will be hard pressed to live up to by those good kids that your life touched. You will be greatly missed, and we will deeply miss that smiling face at all the games.
Good luck in your next adventure, because you will be very busy, given your enthusiastic, vibrant and cheery nature. You really are in a better place, and have a much more important work to do. We know that you will accomplish those works with the same drive as you have shown to all of those lives you have touched back here.
Again, thank you, and we are better individuals because of your example and friendship.
Lisa Carlile
June 1, 2005
I grew up in Heber and had the wonderful experience of knowing the entire Tree family. My parents, John and Lois, were best friends with Marion and Nedra. Our two families did everything together. With 4 boys, I had the wonderful appointment as being the "Tree's Girl." Ron was just like my big brother. He taught me how to ride horses, fall off snowmobiles, play twister, and enjoy life. I'll never forget when we would hook up the horses to the sleigh and take rides through the neighborhood. I love you all, and I'm heartbroken. Ron was so much like his dad. Now they are together, swapping football stories and talking farming and fishing with Mr."C". Such a great family. Such a great man. I'm a better person having been allowed to be just a little part of his life.
Love forever,
The first little sister,
Lis
Joyce Terry
June 1, 2005
What a priviledge it was for me to rub shoulders with Ron through the Wasatch Associates program this past year. Ron is such a gentle man, with great insights and thoughtfulness. He touched so many lives and set a great example for us all. Thank you, Ron, for your many kindnesses and good works.
Carrie Petersen
May 31, 2005
As a junior at Viewmont nearly 30 years ago, and a wrestling team manager, I'll never forget the quiet coach and the great person. Thanks for your influence on my life.
Cody Medler
May 31, 2005
Coach Tree was my football coach for four years of high school football. He was a very caring man, who's first thoughts were of other people, not himself. The kids at school all looked up to him as a great and gentle man, one who you could go to with any question or any need. He taught me things about life, how to play football, how to be happy, how important chocolate milk and a good doughnut are and how to play the game of life. He was a great example for this community and for all the high school. We lost a good man, that will be hard to replace. I wish him well, because he has gone on to better places and to better things.
Danny Drew
May 31, 2005
As an assistant coach who served with Ron, I was able to see first hand the effect Ron had on the students he worked for; I say for because he went out of his way to make sure every athlete or student felt like he or she was number one in Coach Tree’s book. Even though I was only able to serve with Ron for one year (mostly in track), I was able to learn a lot about being a better coach and teacher. I was deeply saddened to learn of his passing, but I am very pleased to celebrate his life with so many who could be affected in such a positive way. Thanks Ron.
With Love,
Danny
Old Roomates and BYU Teammates 1988 Wayne Bower Craig Denney Ron Tree Dave Affleck
May 31, 2005
William Vander Linden
May 31, 2005
Ron,
En als de mensen tot Mij komen, zal ik hun hun zwakheid tonen. Ik geef de mensen zwakheid, opdat zij nedrig mogen zijn; en Mijn genade is voldoende voor allen, die zich voor Mij vernederen, want indien zij zich voor Mij vernederen, en geloof in Mij hebben, zal Ik zwakke dingen sterk voor hen doen worden (Ether 12:27).
Thirty-two years ago in the Netherlands you showed me an individual who was the imbodiment of that scripture. And while our paths only crossed a few times since then, the scripture was still in the man.
You told me back in the Netherlands you wanted to be a high school coach and hope to influence young people. Well many of our companions went on to be doctors, lawyers, and other professions. But I don't think any of us have touched as many lives as you did.
Well it looks like you may just get another crack at those stubborn dutchman. God zij met U tot wij weder ziens, broeder.
Shari Elliott (Roberson)
May 31, 2005
My prayers are with you all in your time of loss. Coach Tree was an amazing man and I was so lucky to have had him as a teacher. I graduated in 1993 and I think I had him as a teacher all 3 years that I attended Wasatch. I will always remember Coach Tree as I look back and reminisce on my High School days!
-Thank you Coach Tree for all you have done for all of your students! You will be greatly missed by many!
Judy M. Mecham
May 31, 2005
Our Community has lost a great man and Wasatch has lost a Coach and Teacher with the highest of standards. I lost a classmate, a genuine and loyal friend and a great neighbor. I will miss our visits and treasure our friendship
always.
Little did I know that the wave and hello we gave each other from our yards on Saturday would be our last. I am a better person for having known you. Goodby my Friend for now!
Judy
Jason Kelly
May 31, 2005
Thank you for everything coach! You were not only a great coach, but you were also a great individual. You will be missed!
Barbara and Jeff Atwood
May 31, 2005
We just want to give three cheers to Coach Tree for being such a great example to the Atwood kids. For his patience with Nicole's student driving - for his understanding for the job Krista did as his aid - and especially for his encouragement and friendship to Travis both on and off the football field. He was one of those people who made this world a better place and he'll be greatly missed.
Gary Anderton
May 31, 2005
Nearly 30 years later, and I havn't forgotten the sincere stare in Coach Tree's eyes. Due to his clean demeanor and his genuine enthusiasm as well as his patience in judgement, I recall his example more so than any other coach I've ever played for, and he was then only an assistant! Ron's inspiration will remain a positive influence in my life, until I pass on. He is gone far too soon.
G. Anderton, Viewmont Class of'79
Virginia Corry
May 31, 2005
I just want to say thank you for the man Coach Tree who blessed the lives of my children who all attended Wasatch High School. He loved them and they knew that and would do the their best because of his encouragement. My children are better people having known and been taught by Coach Tree on and off the field, in and out of the classroom.
Michael Probst
May 31, 2005
I was saddened to hear of Rons passing. Although I haven't had the opportunity to visit him in years, he was a good friend and a good example for all of us to follow. The world will be a lesser place with his passing. Good bye old wrestling partner. Mike Probst
Chrissy Shakespeare
May 31, 2005
As a 2003 Graduate from Wasatch High School there is nothing but good things to say about Coach Tree. Coach Tree was an inspiration to everyone. I would like to say I was one of his favorite athletes and students, but everyone was his favorite. He was a true inspiration in my life, and I will never forget him, or the things he has taught me.
Mont Wade
May 31, 2005
Our family has been forever touched and blessed by Coach Tree Every youth that he came in contact with thought that they were his favorites, including our two daughters who ran track FOR him. He was an inspiration for them in all their disappointing times. Sadie quoted and honored him in her Graduation speech on May 26, 2005. Thank You Love, Mont & Betty Wade
Linda Provost
May 31, 2005
There are no words to express what Coach Tree meant to our family and for all that he did for our son Ryan. It was shocking to hear the news. As everyone gathered at the Football Field the stands filled up and there was a silence never before felt in that stadium. The football team gathered at the 50 yard line and signed the W then knelt and said a prayer. It was Coach Tree's final huddle. After every game the team gathered and knelt down. I know on many occassions Coach Tree said many silent prayers in that huddle.
I am grateful to know such a wonderful man who taught his players, compassion, class, unity, brotherhood, integrity, heart & intensity and so many other things that help young men develop into productive men.
Our football experiences are something we will never forget. He always had an open door policy for everyone. Parents were always welcome into his Locker Room and Classroom. As "Football Mom's" we have so much fun doing things for the team through the season and especially on game day. I know there were many times he was shaking his head at "What did they come up with this week?"
Last season when the stadium flags went up and the balloon arch he was so happy. He came off the field after the game and thanked us for everything. To see the smile on his face is something I will always remember.
Coach Tree thank-you. My cancer somtimes is hard for our family to cope with but you always had a listening ear for Ryan and taught him family is first, football second. For all of the compassion you gave to everyone in this valley. For teaching the players how to be competative and a class act at the same time. The camp out and the camp fire holds a special place in my heart. To listen to the players set their goals and listen to all of your words of wisdom was a very special time. "The Horse Story" everyone will always remember. Everyone knows what Synergy is now!
Teamwork and unity that is what will happen this season as Wasatch plays with heart never before felt. They will bring a State Championship home for a Coach that will never be forgotten.
Wasatch Pride
All for one, one for all, all for Wasatch High School!
The world is a better place because of a selfless man named Coach Ron Tree.
This season is for you Coach!
Jed Neilson
May 31, 2005
Ron was such a great influence on so many people. I cherish the relationship and friendship that my Father and I shared with Ron. Thanks for being such a great friend and example. With all my Love, Jed Neilson
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