Ronnie Dale Caffrey

Ronnie was born in Yakima on September 11th, 1946 to Laurance and Avis Caffrey. As a kid, he was vibrant and a bit mischievous-- a spirit that would last a lifetime. He attended high school at Boys Town in Nebraska, where he learned the trade of pressman. Ron loved Boys Town and credits it with giving him much needed direction and discipline.

After graduating, Ron was drafted into the Army and served two years in Vietnam. He was awarded several medals for performance and conduct. Though private about it, Ron was proud of his service and loved his country. Following the Army, Ron returned to Yakima and became an apprentice at Franklin Press. He enjoyed a long career in the printing industry where he was known to be highly skilled, dependable, and meticulous.

In 1969, on a blind date, Ronnie met Donna. He arrived in a muscle car, Nehru jacket, and freshly cut red hair. Dripping with cool. It was love at first sight. They were married in 1971 and again in 2004. Their lifelong relationship and devotion to their family stands as a lasting example of love, loyalty, and commitment. They had two children, Josh and Brandi. Ron was a great dad. Always available, patient, and supportive. He was a fun dad—strict with the laws, but flexible with the rules. He never refused a game of catch in the yard or competitive Yahtzee at the kitchen table. He always had time for his kids.

Ron’s steady kindness, generosity, and youthful spirit extended to all his relationships. He cherished his siblings—his “Sissy” and his “Boje” brothers. He made lifelong friends at every stop in life, from High School, the Army, the Jaycees, work, youth sports, the golf course, and the casino. A friend of Ron’s was a friend for life. He would do anything for his friend and family.

Ronnie loved muscle cars, especially the AMX. Even though he could no longer drive, he still had plans to buy one last sports car, park it in the driveway, and admire it. He loved all types of music, from the Beatles to Yani. He was an expert whistler of commercial jingles. He enjoyed all sports, especially boxing. He was a true believer of Bigfoot. Bob Ross instilled in him the joy of oil painting, which he practiced off and on over the years. He was a regular at the casino. Neither rain nor sleet, nor gloom of wheelchair fire could keep him away from his Timber Wolf slots.

Later in life, Ronnie’s biggest joy was his grandchildren. He was their biggest fan in every way and loved nothing more than simply being with them. They cherish many memories from their time together, including his “business cards”—those folded 20 dollar bills he handed out with a smile and a “don’t tell grandma”—just one of the many ways he showed love. We love him dearly.

Ron is survived by his wife Donna, children Joshua and Brandi, daughter-in-law Amber, son-in-law Aaron, brother Dennis, Grandchildren Malachy, Jaxton, Elliana, and Emma, as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Laurence and Avis, sisters Judy and Martha, and his brother Larry.

Donations to Boys Town at www.boystown.org would be appreciated.

A Military Graveside Committal will be held at West Hills Memorial Park, 11800 Douglas Rd, Yakima, WA 98908, US, on May 11, 2026, at 10:30 am.

A Reception will follow at Golden Villa Clubhouse, 18 W Washington Ave, Yakima, WA 98903, US, on May 11, 2026, at 11:45 am.

Though we will miss him, Ron’s kindness, generosity, and spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.