This was my fifth grade teacher. I have never forgotten him my favorite of all time. I am now 68 rest in peace, sir.

a small coterie of us WSU undergraduate music students were groupies of Ron Nail back in 1969-1971.  He was brought to WSU on a graduate teaching fellowship by a well-known artist in residence.  I believe all in our group would attest that Ron Nail was one of the most charismatic personalities we had each encountered, and when he performed the effect was only amplified.  In the ensuing 4 decades since then, I am sure he was nothing less than an inspired teacher and a motivating guide into the world of music for many students.

I am so very sorry to hear of Ron's passing. During the eighties he and I collaberated on a cartoon panel, entitled "Nail UPs'. We also sat through many 49er football games here in Pacifica. He is till playing his music somewherout there in the fair somewhere. A talent like Ron's never ends. Ron; I shall always cherish our friendship. Lotsa good memories.

I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Nail's passing. My brother and I both took piano lessons from him for many years. He was a great mentor and teacher. His last months were hard on him and I hope he found some joy during those times and left this earth in peace. I am sorry we weren't closer. I will miss you dearly.

I'm so sorry to hear of Ron's passing just today.  I had the great pleasure of knowing Ron for many many years. He taught both my children and myself how to play the piano.  He was a very gifted teacher who became our friend.  He carries a very special place in my heart and that of my children and we will miss him dearly. I smile now remembering his love for the SF Giants and all his funny jokes. Rest in peace Ron. May the angels sing for you.  My deepest sympathies to his family.

Ronnie and I are cousins. I'm 6 months older than he is.  I always figured when we grew up that I would marry him, or at least live with him, because he was the love of my young life.  I wanted to listen to him practice for the rest of my life, but we lived in Los Angeles.  I only ever attended one recital/concert, but I was able to listen to him practice quite often.  Of course we didn't marry, but I still feel the same about him.  Even though he sat at the piano practicing in his underware alot, when he put on his tuxedo & his bow tie, with his blonde hair, he was gloriously handsome.  Even though we have always lived distances apart, we always had lots of long telephone conversations.  Not so much about the 49ers, more about politics and his life.  I'm very sad that he is gone, but I have a lot of happy memories with him.  He was the absolute best.  The last few months, he was stressed and tired.  But now he is in heaven with Auntie Berle & Uncle Al, and he has a new body, healthy and whole.  I Love You Ronnie.

My kids, Megan and Brandon, were very fortunate to have the opportunity to take piano lessons with Mr. Nail.  He understood both "take charge personalities" and "the gentle souls" and brought the best out in them.  We will treasure our fond memories of Ron and wish peace and comfort to all his remaining family members.

You were our neighbor for many years and we always enjoyed what were many fun conversations in front of the house. You will be missed.

Ron was a classmate at Modesto Junior College when my family moved to Modesto.
We spent many hours in the music department with the aspiring music majors and others who took a few specific music classes, as required by their hoped-for degree.  He was intense about his music, a joy to watch at the keyboard, and I am sure, a superb teacher.  We will miss his enthusiasm  and dedication.
Eddi Marie E. Julian (Beckles Candies)

Ron was my 5th grade teacher in Riverbank.He was my all time favorite teacher..I recall his fabulous piano playing...I even wrote letters to him after he left Rio Altura school..I have thought of him many times over the years...I'm sad that i didnt getin touch with him , now that I'm a musician....Rest in peace...you were a very important part of my childhood life....

I have known Ron for some 30 years and proud to call him friend. We have shared many laughs and stories. He will be greatly missed, and will always live in our hearts and prayers.

You were so gorgeous when you sat at the piano.  I treasure the memory of our many hours of music together and of so many other experiences we shared as we grew into adulthood...not the least of which was our marriage - March 2, 1968 and our divorce shortly thereafter.  None of that changed our feelings for each other.

Ron Nail, please rest. I will always remember our times together when you would say, "you have got to count". I learned how to count quarter notes by saying " rabit" that's how young I was when we met, and I really can't imagine a life without you one of my greatest teachers, and friends. You will always be remembered fondly.

We will always miss Ron but know he rests in peace at his mother's side while continuing to follow his beloved Niners.

OBITUARY

Ronald Albert Nail

23 January, 1943 – 27 March, 2015

Lakewood Funeral Home & Memorial Park

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