Ronald Newark

1938 - 2025

Ronald Lee Newark

January 28, 1938 - March 22, 2025

Ronald Lee Newark was born on January 28, 1938, in St. Charles, Illinois, to parents who had immigrated from Bohemia (Czechoslovakia)-a heritage he embraced wholeheartedly throughout his life. He grew up in Burbank, California, where his childhood was filled with music. His parents, recognizing his talent, sent him to Vienna to study piano, hoping he would become a concert pianist. But life had other plans.

Upon returning to the United States, Ron met the love of his life, Ann. Their love story was so grand that they married each other twice. Together, they built a life filled with adventure and hard work. They relocated to Santa Maria to help run the family ranch, where they raised three children-Kristin, Sherri, and Ronny.

Ron wore many hats throughout his life-cattle rancher, Western shop owner, boatsman, and dedicated community member. He was a member of the Freemasons, Elks, NRA, Vaqueros, Ranchero Visitadores, Power Squadron, Yacht Club, American Quarter Horse Association, St. Peter's Episcopal Church, and several other organizations dedicated to tradition, camaraderie, and service. He gave back to his community through countless volunteer efforts and often reminisced about "Old Santa Maria," a place he held dear to his heart.

Beyond his love for the ranch, Ron was also a world traveler. Alongside his closest friends-who became his family-he explored the globe, from China to England, Paris to Italy, Mexico to Austria, and even back to his roots in the Czech Republic. Among his many adventures, he narrowly avoided disaster by dodging passage on the ill-fated Andrea Doria. He also loved spending time on the water, especially at Catalina Island, where he created lasting memories surrounded by the ocean's beauty.

One of Ron's greatest passions was Disneyland. From the moment his daughter was just three days old, he was determined to introduce her to the magic Walt Disney had created. Disneyland became a beloved tradition, shared across generations with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Through all of life's journeys-whether on horseback, at sea, across the world, or in the heart of Disneyland-Ron never lost his adventurous spirit. And when technology frustrated him or his great-grandkids wore him out, he'd smile and say, "I'm just an old cowboy."

Ron leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and adventure. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Ann, and his beloved daughter, Kristin. On March 22, 2025, Ron gracefully transitioned into everlasting rest, where he was reunited with his beloved Ann. Their love story, rooted in deep devotion and adventure, now continues beyond this world. He is survived by his daughter Sherri, his son Ron (Sharon), and his cherished grandchildren: Sean (Lauren), Jaqi (Matt), Cydney, Jocelyn (Danny), Anastasia, Seth (Maria), Madelyn, and Claire (Steven), as well as 11 great-grandchildren: Dylan, Landon, Layla, Tristin, Presley, Tegan, Irelynn, Hudson, Aubrey, Drew, and Jordan, who brought him endless joy.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude toward his nurses-Jen, Rebecca, Alyssa, and Marissa-for their compassionate care and kindness during Ron's final days. They would also like to acknowledge Ron's loyal companion, Sandy, whose unwavering love and presence filled his heart with joy and comfort.

In honor of Ron's lifelong generosity and his belief that no child should suffer, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Shriners Hospitals for Children.

The funeral will be held at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church on March 31st, 2025, at 1:00 pm, located at 4380 Orcutt Road, Santa Maria, CA 93455. The reception will immediately follow at U-Pick Blueberries, 3665 Dominion Road, Santa Maria, CA 93454.

Visit www.dudleyhoffmanmortuary.com to leave a condolence for the family.