Ronald C. Dovey OBITUARY

Ronald C. Dovey, beloved father, husband, and friend, passed away June 28, 2024 eager to reunite with the Lord and his heavenly family. Ron was born in Pomona and resided in the Pomona Valley for the entirety of his 93 years. His tenacity and creative mind are no doubt a result of his ancestry as he was a descendent of both Ben Franklin and Jesse Chisholm (Chisholm trail explorer). Ron attended Pomona public schools, PHS ’49, as well as Mt. SAC. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a Sea Bee, constructing air bases and military facilities in Guam. He had signed up to be a chef, but the Navy thought better and selected him for heavy equipment operator. He found true love in his lifelong partner, Betty Schroeder shortly after leaving the Sea Bees. They married after a 2-week courtship. Their journey together for over 63 years until Betty’s passing in 2020 was the foundation of devotion and inspiration they provided for their 2 children, John David and Liza Anne. Ron was a blue-collar worker who provided for his family and spent nearly 40 years working for Continental Baking company in sales and product placement of Wonder Bread. Prior to that he worked for Pepsi Co, in sales and delivery. Always looking for improvement to the lifestyle of their family, Ron and Betty moved to Claremont, residing there for over 50 years. In retirement he and Betty found joy in community service. Both volunteered for years at local election polling places, and Ron was a Traveler’s Aid docent at Ontario airport, providing directions to lost travelers and a kind word to mothers with crying babies. Travel was another highlight of Ron’s life. He and Betty journeyed to more than 50 countries, some of them several times. Their last adventures were frequent stays at Liza’s vacation home in Costa Rica. Among Ron’s favorite activities beyond finding the next place to discover, was his talent at furniture restoration, especially of the antiques he and Betty would find. He enjoyed crossword puzzles and the highlight of evening recreation consisted of watching (and usually beating the contestants) on Jeopardy. Anyone who knew Ron also knew he would not be interrupted during the program. Period. Many of his grandchildren are now just as emphatic on the subject. Ron is survived by son John David (Lisa), daughter Liza Larsen (Brad), 6 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren, all of whom he is extremely proud. He never met a stranger and could bring a smile to anyone with his wit, dry humor, and positive attitude. In his last days he could make us smile with his sharp and poignant humor. He was earnest in learning new things each day and sharing his knowledge. Ron’s final days were not always his best due to ravages of old age. His caregivers went beyond measure to see to his comfort and well-being. The family is indebted to them for their love. Services will be held July 26 at 11:00 at Oak Park Cemetery. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in his name to the Tower To Tunnels Foundation.