Ronald Michael Roper

Ron Roper passed away September 21, 2026 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was born July 15, 1943 in Salt Lake City to Jack Roper and Estella (Stella) Walbom. Jack died in action serving in the US Navy on December 7, 1944. Ron was just 16 months old. From that time on, his grandparents, Estella and Lorenz Walbom, and Mignonne and John Roper, were pivotal in his upbringing. His mother remarried and over the next ten years he gained three brothers and a sister. He attended Granite High School and during that time met his lifelong friends David Ottley and Arlene Thomas. Ron married Debra Lee Barrett and later adopted her daughter Sonya Lynn. Together they had one child, but tragically, it died three days after birth.

Ron’s real guardian angels were his aunt and uncle, Mary and Bruno Romano. Ron always held a special place in their hearts, and they never stopped looking out for him. Bruno hired Ron for various jobs working for Paramount Detective Agency, and later Ron worked for Mary and Bruno’s sons Mike and Corby Romano at Electric Drain and Sewer Rooter. You couldn’t miss them. Their slogan; “In our business, a royal flush beats a full house.” Mike and Corby always had a place for Ron. He worked for them until he was 82 years old. They assumed the post as guardian angels. He owed everything to them.

Ron’s pride and joy was being a member of The Fraternal Order of Eagles #67 Salt Lake City. He held many positions over the years, including a time as President, and gained many valued and trusted friends.

Ron is survived by his daughter Sonya Roper; his grandchildren Brett Baker, Kaylee Baker and Harlan Brosa IV; his brothers and sister Art, Dan, Allen and Artelle Cracraft; his nephew David Durns; and his very good friend Arlene Thomas. She was at his side when he passed.

Ron’s wish was to be cremated and his ashes buried beside his mother, Stella Cracraft. Family and friends are invited to gather Monday, October 5, 2026 from 10:00 am until 10:45 am at the mortuary and 11:00 am for a graveside service at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park, 3401 South Highland Dr., Salt Lake City, Utah 84106.

Our family wishes to extend our deepest appreciation and respect for all the people who helped Ron during his last few months. Especially the nurses, CNA’s and staff at Canyon Hospice Tooele and Canyon Hospice Salt Lake. His last days were spent at The INN Between hospice in Salt Lake. His caregivers and fellow patients became friends. He and his roomy, Wally, became known as The INN Between’s odd couple. Please consider The INN Between hospice, 1216 E. 1300 So., Salt Lake City, Utah 84105 for contributions or as a volunteer. They do good work.