November 5, 1951 -
November 10, 2019

Ron Kercheval, Jr passed Sunday, November 10, 2019 at age 68.

He is survived by his children Kent Kercheval, Karly Kercheval, and Hannah Kercheval.

Ron was born November 5, 1951 in Pullman, Washington.

He graduated from Mount Vernon High School, Washington State University and received his MBA at the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University.

Professionally, Ron worked 20 years in brand marketing at Fortune 500 companies, directed financial analytics for Blue Cross Blue Shield health insurance company, and for the past 15 years, consulted for behavioral health providers across the country. His work improved the operations of clinics, hospitals, psychiatric, addiction treatment centers, agencies and social service organizations that touched the lives of many families and patients. His work is a great legacy that will benefit so many lives. Additionally, Ron taught business and marketing to active military, veterans and students at Columbia College.

Ron played bass guitar in a local classic rock band, weekly at Citipointe Church in La Conner, loved his two Labradors and could often be seen riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

Ron is survived by his mother Ruth Wylie, sister Joni Kercheval Topper (Joseph), children Jacob and Haley, sister Nancy Kercheval (Hans Sohlstrom), children Annika and Stefan, sister-in-law Sandy Kercheval, and children, David and Katherine, step-brother Dallas Wylie (Darlene) and step-sister Kay Wylie McPherson (George) and other nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by father Ron Kercheval Sr., step-father Jack Wylie, brother Michael Robert Kercheval, step-brother Jon Wylie and step-sister Joan (Wylie) Vance.

The funeral service will be held at St Paul's Episcopal Church, 415 S 18th Street, Mount Vernon on Friday, November 22th, 2019 at 11AM. Reception immediately to follow at the Saltbox Barn on Fir Island, 17995 Fir Island Road, Conway (dress warmly).

Donations in Ron's memory may be made Attention Deficit Disorder Association (www.ADD.org/donate/) or the Columbia College scholarship fund (https://my.ccis.edu/giving-priorities).

Arrangements are under the care of Hawthorne Funeral Home, Mount Vernon, WA.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Skagit Valley Herald from Nov. 15 to Nov. 20, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for RONALD KERCHEVAL, JR.

Sponsored by Hawthorne Funeral Home - Mount Vernon.

15 Entries

Steve Hill

November 23, 2019

I worked with Ron for a few years (guessing 2010-2011) and was instantly drawn to him. He was an incredibly special person. Talented. Friendly. Real. The world (and I) will miss him.

Corei Gullikson

November 22, 2019

My Dear Ruth and family. Ron was a very important part of my life for many years - first as a co-worker and friend, and later as my dear "coffee dude". While it is a personal tribute that only Ron knows is special, he was a friend, mentor and holder of secrets of my heart. He was always a champion for those with struggles, and who he was at the core. I am so sad with his passing, my heart is breaking. He was a man of deep thought, and those who didn't really know him would struggle with what he was trying to teach and share. Recently we spent a lovely evening doing what we enjoyed and shared together, and I will always be greatful for that time I was given . I pray that he knows just how much he brought to my life, and to those around us. There are others that I met at his service, who loved this man. as I do. I hope for peace and joy again for you, as that is what Ron would have wanted. He himself was someone that needed and cherished those in his life. I will forever be thankful for my time in his life. I hope you found the light Ron, and I will miss you always. Love Corei

Adrian Bishop

November 22, 2019

Working with Ron closely for the last few years, he became a real friend as well as a talented colleague. A unique personality that made working with him a real pleasure. I will miss him deeply.

Steve G factor 5

November 21, 2019

Thank you Ron, thank you for the joy, the music, the attitude, the example of caring, purposeful work and play. A kind, gentle big friend I will always remember and appreciate in the time we shared. Prayers of blessings and peace to your family.

Jeff Bradley

November 20, 2019

I will miss you, my friend. Thank you for all the many ways you so generously gave of yourself to us, your music family. We had some crazy adventures, performed together on many stages, and spent many hours of intense seriousness and silliness in the rehearsal room! I'm glad we had those times. I will remember them with a smile, until I see you again... :)

Cynthia (Knowles) Will

November 20, 2019

I haven't seen Ron for over 40 years, but I knew him in high school and college. His warm smile and friendship will be missed. Although it is sad that he died so young, it is wonderful to learn he was able to use his special gifts to reach out and help so many people. I am proud to have known him. RIP, dear friend.

Karen McCormack

November 20, 2019

I am so saddened to hear of Ron's passing. He helped me so much with things going on in my life and was always there with an ear to listen and a smile, along with his words of wisdom. I am so going to miss our chats and your helping me work my way through life on my own. RIP my good friend. I will miss you so very much. Thanks for always being there for me these past few years. I will always remember your kindness. I know Angus and Duncan will miss you so very much. You were their person. God speed!

Eternal Affection Arrangement- BASKET INCLUDED

a loved one

Sent Flowers

Patrick Gauthier

November 18, 2019

Ron and I had the opportunity to collaborate and work together as friends and peers since 2006. He was a great friend! He radiated all that is good in the world.

I watched first-hand as our clients - mental health and addiction treatment providers as well as social services agencies - changed, improved and grew to reach more people with important services. Ron did that.

He helped people learn and grow. He nurtured the best in people. He spurred innovation and evolution along. He made things better. And for that he will be missed! Thanks to Pat for introducing me to Ron!

I and my colleagues will keep Ron's work alive and kicking! He'd like it that way. With a little rock n' roll kick to it!

Aaron Whitney

November 18, 2019

See you at the next gig my friend. Til then play all the YES you want. I bet the acoustics are heavenly.

Barbara Hamel

Sent Flowers

Wendy Ragusa

November 16, 2019

From the Hall and Ragusa Families-
we send our love and hugs to the you, our family. Roger just remarked that he was happy to have run into Ron recently. We are sad Ron is gone.
Rest in peace, Ron!
-Susan & Neil, Wendy & Roger, Krista & Christian

Laurie Breed

November 16, 2019

Angie Goodwin

November 15, 2019

Ron was an amazing person and teacher. I am so grateful I had the chance to take as many classes as I did with him. I'm deeply saddened that he won't be there when I work towards my master's degree. It meant a lot to me and all of us graduates that he was at our ceremony in June. He was incredibly dedicated to our education and fought to make sure we had the skills we needed to succeed. He had a great sense of humor and made our classes educational and entertaining. He loved to give us a hard time before he built us up with his knowledge and experience. Columbia College will never be the same without his presence. I offer my deepest condolences for your loss. I know it is deeply felt with all who knew him. I will miss him greatly. He was a huge inspiration and wonderful person.

Vicki Breaux

November 14, 2019

My heart is broken on Rons passing. My prayers go out to his mother, sisters, children, and nieces, nephews, and cousins that they may all be comforted by Gods Holy Spirit in this their time of sorrow. Your Cousin, Vicki Breaux

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