Ron lived a full and accomplished life. In high school, Ron won many awards in rowing, Nordic skiing, track & field. After high school he became an accomplished wood worker. Many have seen his work in the Ordway Theater, St. Paul Hotel, and many office buildings. Ron felt his greatest accomplishment was building his Emeraude two-place airplane, which he flew for several years, many trips accompanied by Isla. He spent several years serving our country in the Minnesota National Guard.
Ron loved wood working. Each piece of his furniture is considered a work of art. He created/built all the cabinets, tables, curio cabinets, and dressers in their beautiful home.
He was an active member of Experimental Aircraft Association for 53 years. After he retired the Emeraude, he built and flew many remote control airplanes.
He is survived by his wife, Isla; five children: Julie (Fichtner) Altrichter (Paul); Kathleen (Fichtner) Graham (Trevor); Lynn (Fichtner) Saddoris; Susan (Nater) Muehe (Vince); Kenneth Nater (Sherry); 11 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren. Ron’s family was most important to him and he will be missed dearly by all of them.
Services will be held on Saturday, September 18 at 3pm with visitation one hour prior at Gearhart Funeral Home, 11275 Foley Blvd NW, Coon Rapids.
