Ronald Raymond Gehlsen

Ronald Raymond Gehlsen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, passed away after a long life marked by fearlessness, ingenuity, humor, and unwavering devotion to the people he loved most.

Ron was born on March 10th, 1932, in Chicago, Illinois, and grew up alongside the girl who would become the love of his life. He and his wife, Norma Grace Lundin, were childhood friends—a true classic love story that endured every chapter of life. His love for her was constant, steady, and unwavering, the kind of partnership that shaped and strengthened their family for generations.

After graduating high school and Marrying Norma, Ron joined and proudly served in the United States Navy for four years during the Korean War. His time in the Navy shaped his discipline, resilience, and sense of duty—qualities that would define him throughout his life.

Following his military service, Ron worked at Argon National Laboratories, applying his sharp mind and technical skill to meaningful scientific work until the family’s move to Arizona. During these years, he also owned a tavern and several other businesses, reflecting his entrepreneurial spirit, strong work ethic, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

Known for always having a smile on his face, he carried a warmth that made people feel welcome, safe, and seen.

In early April of 1971, Ron made a bold and defining decision: to move his family from Chicago to Arizona. With everyone piled into a pickup truck and camper, he led them toward a new life built on courage, optimism, and the promise of opportunity.

In 1972, he purchased Survey and Optical Instrument Co. After apprenticing for a year, he became Southern Arizona’s premier survey equipment and service provider, also supporting the Sonora, Mexico territory. His expertise extended to servicing microscopes and optical instruments for the University of Arizona, contributing to high-profile projects including work connected to the Hubble telescope. He owned the company for approximately 25 years before selling it, yet continued working in the industry until the age of 89—a testament to his passion, precision, and dedication.

A builder at heart, Ron purchased 20 acres north of Vail in the Rincon Creek Valley and spent four years constructing a home and pool, working mostly on weekends. The family moved in on July 4th, 1976. He later built another home near Sabino High School in 1980, and his final home in the Ventana Canyon resort area in 1986. Each home was a reflection of his craftsmanship, determination, and desire to create a beautiful life for his family.

He was a prolific tinkerer and inventor, always solving life’s little problems with creativity and curiosity. His hands were always busy, his mind always turning.

At 62, Ron learned to ski—an unexpected passion that quickly became his favorite hobby. He spent countless days skiing at Sunrise in Arizona, in Colorado, and even took two unforgettable trips to Champoluc, Italy. He continued skiing until he was 80, embracing every slope with the same fearlessness that defined his life.

His humor was legendary. He told jokes in nearly a dozen languages, and his memory for stories and laughter never faded.

Above all, Ron was a family man. He adored his children and found immense joy in reading to and playing with his grandchildren. His love for his family guided every decision he made, every risk he took, every dream he built.

Over the last few months of his life, he was surrounded by visits from those who loved him. His soul left this earth on Saturday, June 6th, with his devoted and loving daughter by his side, his hand held gently in hers.

Ron is survived by his sister, Gale Gehlsen; his children, Kurt (Rackel) Gehlsen, Kimberly (Gregory) and Paul Gehlsen; his grandchildren, Grant, Danielle, Kai, Alexi, Tessa, and Max; and his great-grandchildren, Hallie, Landon, Gus, and Quentin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Dorothy Gehlsen; his wife, Norma Gehlsen; and his son, Guy Gehlsen.

He met every challenge head-on, always with the goal of making life better for those he loved. His legacy is one of courage, ingenuity, devotion, and love—a life lived fully, fearlessly, and with a heart that never wavered.

Ron will be laid to rest next to his Beloved wife and son in Chicago, IL in the Spring of 2027. ‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎