Ronald Martin Sanden

Ronald Martin Sanden was born February 15, 1939, in Warren, Pennsylvania, to Elvis Arthur and Martha Magdeline Cook Sanden. He grew up in Warren, where he enjoyed an active childhood. Some of his favorite activities included being a Boy Scout, playing Little League Baseball, and participating in basketball leagues.

He graduated from Warren High School in 1957, where he was a proud member of the school’s undefeated champion football team. He went on to attend Thiel College, where he played on the football team and was later inducted into the Thiel College Athletics Hall of Fame for his accomplishments in 1958. He continued his education at Duke University, earning a degree from the School of Forestry in 1962.

Ron’s career with the U.S. Forest Service took him west, where he worked in the Cascade, Ashley, and Fishlake National Forests. He dedicated 35 years of service, specializing in timber sales, wildfire management, and silviculture.

In 1969, Ron was baptized as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. On May 24, 1976, he was sealed to his eternal companion Brenda and their daughters, Gina and Traci, in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. Ron faithfully served in many Church callings but found the greatest joy in working with the youth.

Ron loved the great outdoors and spent much of his free time enjoying nature with family and friends. He especially enjoyed trapping, hunting, fishing, and gardening.

He was also a devoted fan of both BYU and Duke University athletics and found great joy in supporting their teams.

Ron is survived by his daughter, Gina (Randy) Meacham; and his grandchildren: Kade (McKenzie) Quarnberg of Annabella, Utah; Alicia Quarnberg of Syracuse, Utah; Justin (Kylie) Meacham of Annabella, Utah; Mason (Sydney) Meacham of Salina, Utah; Karson Meacham of Orem, Utah; Katelyn Meacham of Joseph, Utah; and eight great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Elvis and Martha Sanden; sister, Marilyn, and brother-in-law, Don Sullivan; his eternal companion, Brenda Joyce; his second wife, Elaine Done; his daughter, Traci Lynn; and his grandson, Skyler.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. in the Springer Turner Funeral Home Chapel in Richfield, where friends may call for viewing Thursday morning from 9:00 to 10:30 prior to the services.

Burial will be in the Richfield City Cemetery under the care of the Springer Turner Funeral Home of Richfield and Salina, Utah.