Ronald L. Gillette, 68
Ronald Lee Gillette, 68 of Ashland, OH, passed away, peacefully, and surrounded by family, Thursday, September 20, 2018 in University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center.
He was born in Midland, Michigan, on November 19, 1949 to Wesley and Netta (nee Henry) Gillette.
Ron proudly served us, and our country, in the United States Army and Coast Guard, for more than 13 years, where he then decided to go into law enforcement. Following his military career, he continued to serve as a DPS officer in Alamogordo, NM, and then a deputy sheriff in Otero County, New Mexico for 15 years. He married the former Connie Farr on June 17, 1987.
Throughout his life, Ron enjoyed metal detecting as a hobby. He was an avid sports fan who loved a good game and enjoyed when his wife or children could watch along with him. He truly loved spending time with his faithful canine companion, Twinkie, who he spent many a day, with her on his lap or belly. They were an inseparable pair for sure.
Rightfully so, his family felt pride in the courageous, and tough exterior/interior, shown while protecting his community and family during his years of service and beyond. While hurt many times, he never faltered when called upon, with fear nor weakness, instead keeping his strength, resolve, and determination until his last breath. The war left him with life-long wounds and sicknesses that he fought, privately, and with his wife at his side, keeping to his true nature throughout his life.
He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Connie Gillette of Ashland, Ohio; two daughters, April (Michael) Donner of Albuquerque, New Mexico and Angie (John) Cunningham of Alamogordo, New Mexico; two sons, Jesse (Stephanie) Gillette of Sheridan, Arkansas and Blade (Allyssa) Gillette of Ashland, Ohio, and 13 grandchildren, Levi Cloakey, Sterling, Alyssa, and Kyle Donner, Breanna, Brandee, and John Cunningham, Jacobi, Miranda, Brandt, and Kassidy Gillette, and Bailee and Brennan Gillette.
In keeping with wishes, cremation will take place and no services will be observed.
Online condolences may be shared on the funeral home’s website at denbowfh.com.
Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home & Crematory is handling the arrangements.
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