Ronald T Saltmarsh

With heavy hearts and a deep sense of gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Ronald T. Saltmarsh, who passed peacefully in his sleep on March 6, 2025. Born May 6, 1936, in Salt Lake City, Utah to Carl and Marva Saltmarsh, Ron’s journey took him from the bustling streets of New York City as a child to the sun-soaked avenues of Glendale, California in his teens, before he ultimately found his home in Portland, Oregon. There, he married the love of his life, Suzanne Moore, in 1961, embarking on a 64-year adventure filled with love, laughter, and a bit of mischief.

Ron’s early years were marked by his talent on the basketball court, earning All-CIF honors at Hoover High School before continuing his athletic career at Glendale Junior College and Portland State University. His skill and determination on the court were matched only by his dedication to his country, as he took a brief detour to serve in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1956, where he was stationed in Germany. After returning, he earned a business degree from Portland State University and later an MBA, forming friendships along the way that would last a lifetime.

A sharp mind for finance and a relentless drive led Ron to a career that culminated in his role as CFO of Familian Northwest, an up-and-coming plumbing wholesale distributor. His leadership helped transform the company into a nationally recognized business, earning the Wholesaler of the Year award in 1996. He remained ever grateful to the Jerry Stern family for the opportunity to contribute to such an outstanding organization for over 32 years.

Though he thrived in the corporate world, Ron’s true passion lay beyond the boardroom. His heart belonged to the wide-open spaces, where hard work met fresh air and the spirit of the West. With Sue by his side, he pursued his dream of ranch life—first on 80 acres in Beavercreek, Oregon, where he raised his family for 24 years, then later, venturing into the ranching and cattle business full time on a sprawling 1,000-acre spread in Central Oregon. There, on ‘Sunrise Ranch’ he transformed into a true cowboy, embracing the daily grind of ranching with an enthusiasm that rivaled even the most seasoned hands. Whether herding cattle, mending fences, or riding his four-wheeler to change irrigation lines, Ron poured his soul into the land he loved. His passion and foresight led to national recognition in the cattle world, boasting a National Champion Angus bull in 1995 (co-owned with famed actor Mel Gibson) and a National Champion Polled Hereford bull in 1997.

An outdoorsman at heart, Ron found solace and joy in nature. Whether fishing in Alaska, elk hunting in Wyoming, bird hunting with his cherished labradors or camping in the high Cascade lakes, he never passed up an opportunity for adventure. His love for the outdoors became a cherished legacy, passed down to his children and grandchildren, who will forever thank 'Big R' as they cast their lines or track the next big hunt. Beyond his love for the outdoors, Ron was an avid athlete who stayed active throughout his life enjoying skiing, biking, working out and playing racquetball.

Never one to sit still, Ron was a master of reinvention, always dreaming up new projects and homesteads. From Oregon to Idaho, Utah to Wyoming, he and Sue built a life filled with constant movement, each new home an opportunity to create something special. Upon retirement, they decided to settle in Utah where they remain until this day. His boundless energy and unwavering determination ensured that no idea remained just a dream for long. He and Sue also loved adventure and were blessed to travel the world stepping foot on every continent.

More than anything, Ron was a devoted husband, a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He took immense pride and joy in his family, and leaves behind his beloved wife Suzanne, and his children: Ronald (Calene) Saltmarsh, Richard (Pam) Saltmarsh, Lisa (Ken) Sumerlin, and Dana (Evan) Stephens, his 14 grandchildren: Scott, Jordan, Krista, Rachel, Tyler, Payton, Austin, Cody, Lindsay, Trevin, Amanda, Ella, Jason, and Alison and 6 great-grandchildren: Theo, Mason, Axel, Savannah, Jane and Claire, and sister: Sandra Parker. His love for his family was deeply felt as he shared his wisdom, humor, and unwavering support, and he will remain a guiding force in their lives. Ron was preceded in death by his brothers Robert (Bobby) Saltmarsh and Gary (Corky) Saltmarsh.

Ron’s presence was larger than life, his impact immeasurable, and his laughter unforgettable. As Patriarch of the Saltmarsh family, both immediate and extended, he led with integrity, hard work and an unwavering dedication to those he loved. Though a man of great stature and fierce independence, he was a gentle giant – always generous with his time, wisdom and resources, offering support to those in need. His legacy of kindness and strength lives on in all who had the privilege of knowing him. A member of the LDS Church, he lived with conviction and kindness, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and a bit of cowboy grit.

Farewell, Cowboy. May the trails ahead be endless, the sunsets golden, and the cattle always moving in the right direction. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

Funeral services will be held on March 22, 2025 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, at 3450 South 3500 West, Heber City, UT 84032. A visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, with services at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at Midway City Cemetery, 600 W. 500 S., Midway, UT 84049.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Tunnel for Towers Foundation or the American Heart Association.