GAETZ, Ronald

October 14, 1936 — February 13, 2023

Ronald “Ron” Percy Gaetz was born on October 14, 1936 in Red Deer, Alberta and died on February 13, 2023. He was from the 3rd Gaetz generation that lived on the family farm located south of Red Deer. His childhood years were spent helping on the farm and learning about animal care and farming. As a boy, he was a member of the 4H Club of Red Deer. Much of his youth was spent outdoors, where he enjoyed sports such as hockey and broomball, as well as hunting and trapping in the slough across the road from the farm. These early experiences shaped much of his interest in the outdoors; a love that persisted into adulthood.

His first professional job was with Chrysler Canada, first in the parts department, and then in sales. In his late 20s, he met and married Ann Carter of Calgary, AB, and together they had three children: Michael, Janet, and William “Bill”.  While with Chrysler, Ron and family moved to a number of cities and towns in Canada from Richmond, BC to Moncton, NB with many Western Canadian stops in between. 

Following marital separation in 1980, Ron eventually re-settled in BC for good with a move to the Okanagan in the late 80s. He continued his work in sales and was the owner operator of many businesses.  There he met his current partner, Rea, and her two sons, Dilun and Troy. Ron and Rea eventually settled in West Kelowna, BC, where they lived until Ron’s death. Ron continued to enjoy the outdoors until late in life with many days spent fishing or floating on lakes with Rea and moose hunting with his friend Mark Deakin. In the last year of his life, Ron was blessed to learn that he had another son born prior to his marriage with Ann. Kent McCashland of Layton, Utah was able to get to know Ron in the years prior to his passing.

Ron was predeceased by his mother Mabel, father Percy, and sister Marie. He is survived by Rea Welansky; his daughter Janet; his sons Kent, Michael, and William; son-in-law Ward; his daughters-in-law My-Phuong and Leah; his grandchildren Jaci, Kaity, Brock, Taegan, Constance, Jake, Sophie, Logan, and Evan; as well as by his brother George and sister-in-law Shirley; cousin Edna; nephew Tyson. 

A private family service will be held in Red Deer County this summer.

Condolences to Rea can be sent to reawelansky@gmail.com and to his children and family at michaelgaetz@gmail.com.