Ronald Clausnitzer

On June 9, 1949 Ronald Clausnitzer, a father, husband, mentor, hunter, fisherman and our favorite drinking buddy, was born in Yakima, Washington.  Rex and Hilda Clausnitzer raised him along with his three brothers and two sisters in Puyallup, Washington. Alongside his siblings, Rod, Darwin, Lonnie, Sharon, and Arvella, he enjoyed activities that created memories that can’t be forgotten or in many cases repeated out loud. On September 23, 1968, he was inducted into the US Army and served in Vietnam for 1 year, 8 months, and 11 days. Later in life this would provide him with the opportunity to fill his Veterans Days with well earned benefits, complimentary meals, and well deserved respect. Upon his return and honorable discharge, he met the love of his life, Barbara. Barbara was wooed by his charm and full head of hair. They spent their early life camping, boating, and creating memories.  Ron would go on to receive a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Washington.  As dad often told us, anyone with an Accounting Degree was just a failed engineer because engineers know it all. Being an adventurous couple, Ron and Barbara decided to start a family and brought Joel and Travis into the world. Their adventurous spirit would eventually take them to Seoul, Korea. There, along with their two children, they would explore the Orient.  They built long lasting friendships, ate exotic and, sometimes questionable food, and explored Asia. Eventually Ronald and Barbara settled and raised their two children in San Diego, California.  For 35 years Ron was a boat captain, boat repair hack, self-proclaimed fishing guru, and bartender. He excelled at teaching his sons how to tell fishing stories, drink martini’s, and take apart anything that was broken. Although things were taken apart to discover how they worked, they didn’t always go back together as planned. His daughter’s in-law Jessica and Erica graced him with 3 grandchildren, Dane, Chloe, and Everett who knew him as Poppa. Poppa was the master of all things embarrassing, Edwards Turtle Pie, and teacher of bad habits. His grumpy political rants, kind heart, and martini hours will be missed by all.  Although he passed suddenly on April 6, 2023 his dreams live on in his family and his memory will be cherished always. Dad, Poppa, Ronald, but to most, Ron, may be gone but he will never be forgotten.