Ronald Joseph Coffey

He spent several years living in Point Lookout, New York, where he was known for finding (or perhaps creating) his share of mischief. The family eventually returned to Louisville, and at the age of 17, Ron bravely joined the U.S. Army, serving as a combat medic, with deployments in Korea, Okinawa, and Vietnam. While deployed with the 1st infantry (The big red one) in Vietnam during 1968-1969, Ron received the Bronze Star for heroic service in a ground combat zone. He was medically and honorably discharged in 1969, and returned home to Louisville. It took Ron some time to heal from the profound impact total war took on his mind and body, but with his characteristic strength, he overcame these challenges, just as he always did.

Beyond his resilience, Ron was a true entertainer at heart. He loved to sing, and was very good at it, even winning national contests hosted by various veterans organizations. Beyond contests, Ron truly enjoyed entertaining family and friends, and his generous spirit led him to volunteer his singing talents at several nursing homes in the community. He also hosted karaoke nights at the former Two Step Inn, and transformed family gatherings into lively concerts filled with singing. In addition to his musical talents, Ron was a quintessential motorcycle rider, and his passion for Harley Davidson was evident in every aspect of his life, embodying the motto "Live to Ride, Ride to Live". His dedication to the brand was unmistakable, you would rarely, if ever, see him in anything but orange and black. Local legend has it he owned every Harley Davidson shirt ever made. This passion was shared by his wife Charlene, and they enjoyed countless rides throughout Taylorsville and surrounding areas. Ron channeled his hobby for greater good, consistently riding in Toys for Tots and various other Veterans causes, including the impactful Run for the wall.

But for all his pursuits, his deepest devotion was reserved for his cherished family and pets. He adored his wife Charlene. If you saw one, the other wasn't far behind, a testament to their inseparable bond. He made it a point to regularly call and check on his children, and his happiest moments were when they were all together. He also found immense joy in watching and interacting with his two beloved cats. For those who knew and loved him our world irrevocably changed on June 9th, we feel a void that will never be filled. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and eternally loved.

He is survived by his wife Charlene; son Ronnie (Melissa); daughters Tammy Coffey, Lana Reed (Shannon) and Shana Russell (Lonnie); grandsons Zachary Coffey, Stryder Reed (Madisen), Kable Reed, Seth Wilkinson, Jake Russell (Anna) and Jeremy Russell; great grandchildren Jaxon, Sutton and Kaedin Reed; brother Kenny Oakley; niece Pam Jones; Sister Linda Haag; as well as his cats Ralph and Abby, and Granddogs Riley, Woodford, Mojo, Cooper, Punkin, Murphy, Olive, and Grandkitty Pearl.

Visitation will be Saturday, June 14, from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm, at Arch L. Heady at Resthaven, 4400 Bardstown Rd, Louisville Ky 40218. Burial will be on Wednesday June 18th, 12:30 pm, at Kentucky State Veterans Cemetery, 2501 N Dixie Blvd, Radcliff Kentucky 40160.