It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ronald Patrick Ranger on January 1st, 2026 at the Drumheller Health Centre, at the age of 71 years.
Ron is now reunited with his father Joseph, mother Mary, and brother Stephen. He has left behind many loved ones which include the love of his life and best friend Karen; his children; Leslie (Tim), Kate-Lynne (Dwayne), Jessica (Cody), Rachel (Quinn), Jacqueline, Nolan, and grand children Sophie and Jacob. As well as his sisters, Janice (Jim), Karen (Dave), Kathy (Doug) and numerous nephews and nieces. Ron was especially close with his two cousins Norman and Raymond.
Ron was born in Calgary Alberta but grew up in Red Deer on his family acreage. Ron worked with his father, honing his carpentry skills which he carried throughout life and passed along to his children. For many years Ron worked in the oilfield overseas. The experiences and people he met were held very close to his heart. He loved to come home and share his cherished stories and adventures. He lit up every room with his sense of humour; making friends everywhere he went.
Ron loved all things outdoors, including; hunting, fishing, and backyard fires with his family. He also enjoyed making bread, pizza, cabbage rolls and he loved his old country music even deviating a bit with some AC/DC. Ron was an avid "Old Duster Movie" watcher; especially Clint Eastwood. He could recite lines from all his favourite movies. Ron was very innovative in both thought and action. He would help anyone in need. He was a selfless man who you could truly rely on in any situation. Benevolence, Ron lived by the definition of this word. He cared about people, he never judged, always taking people at face value and welcoming them with open arms.
Not only did Ron have a heart of gold; if you asked anyone that knew him, they would say he is quite a character. His quirks and jokes left a smile on everyone's faces.
Throughout life, Ron was a man of deep conviction and faith. His strength and resilience shone throughout difficult years with health struggles. He continued to face each day with a smile, always the optimist. He was the rock of our family.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his loving family.
"See ya later alligator, in a while crocodile."
Prayer Vigil service will be held Friday, January 9, 2026 at 7:00 P.M.at St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church, Funeral Mass will be held Saturday January 10, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church, there will a luncheon following mass at the St. Anthony’s Church Hall, interment will follow at the Delia Cemetery, Delia, Alberta
In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to the MS society, Operation Smile or SPCA.
Courtney-Winter's Funeral Homes are in care of the arrangements.
Please do not order any flowers off this site. Please use your local florist. Thank you.
This obituary is published with permission of the family of Ronald Patrick Ranger and may not be copied © 2026