Ronald John Crutchley

On September 15, 2021, right at his bedtime, Ronald Crutchley “Crutch” suddenly but peacefully passed away with his loving and devoted daughters by his side.

Born in New Westminster, BC, to the late John “Jack” and Ethelda Crutchley, Ron was the baby of the family, raised on a small farm in Surrey with siblings Lorne, Larry, and the late Diane Dunham (Kenneth).

Growing up, Ronnie loved sports, fast cars, music, and dancing. He excelled at everything he put his mind to, especially baseball, golf, and gymnastics. Backflipping his way through his youth, Ron landed his career in the construction trade, where his passion and excellence in math and woodworking brought him success, joy, and new friends on every job site.

Leaving behind with incredibly broken hearts are his daughters with whom he shared uniquely special bonds; his fishing and two-stepping partner, Reanne Harder “Goose, Annie”, (Nelson, his hunting companion), and his crib and couch-karaoke buddy, Dorian “DoDo, DoLeigh”. He will also be forever missed by his granddaughter and BFF, Kinsley, his four-legged pal, Beau, and the “son he never had” and fellow fighter, Colby Hermus.

Ron even became best friends with his ex-wife, Jeanette and her 2nd husband, Ray “Red Dog One” Rourke, which speaks to the man he was, that once you met him, he held a place in your heart forever.

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Larry and Carol “Mother Hen” Kilback. There are not enough words to express our appreciation for your unconditional love and support over the years.

Ron made friends easily with anyone he met. He was a loyal family man and just had too many other special relationships with family, friends, nieces, nephews, and ex-in-laws to mention, but he loved all of you and spoke of you often.

In recent years, Ron’s hobbies grew to include fishing, hunting, camping, boating, travelling, and continuing to be a skilled and reliable handy man to anyone in need of assistance or advice. Ron was also an avid stock car racing fan, watching races and cheering from the stands as often as he could each summer in Penticton.

Though Ron was the definition of a “Man’s Man”, he also had the kindest, most compassionate heart. He was strong and hard-working, yet extremely thoughtful, caring, trustworthy, endlessly understanding, and always willing to help anyone, at any time, no questions asked. Ron was also known for his quick wit and silly sense of humour (even when it may have been slightly less than appropriate). There was always a joke to be shared, a laugh to be had, and he could always lift your spirits if you were feeling down. Even through his most challenging times, his positivity and ability to comfort others was unmatched. Simply put, Ron was an absolute legend, and many have said that they believe they are a better person for knowing him. He was truly one of a kind and the world was a better place with him in it.

Keep on whistling, Daddy. We will miss you always and will forever carry your memory in our hearts.

Due to Covid, a service has been postponed until the massive celebration Dad deserves can be held safely.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Ron’s name to the BC Cancer Society or to ElderDog Canada.

Condolences and messages to the family can be sent to www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com

Arrangements entrusted with First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna, BC 250-762-2299