Obituary
Ron was born in North Vancouver, British Columbia on October 16th, 1942. Growing up in post war Canada, much time was devoted to playing sports, where he honed a gifted skill set in baseball winning many accolades as a second baseman. Prior to entering his senior year in High School, Ron dropped out of school due to his disillusionment with student treatment by the administration and spent a year working for the city sanitation department. It was during this time that Ron developed a strong desire to positively impact the educational system, believing there was no such thing as a bad kid, just kids requiring genuine and positive guidance. Ron returned to high school the next year, triumphantly winning the school class presidency, and graduating. It was during this senior year that Ron met the love of his life, Dorothy (Dolly) MacDonald, and they began a lifelong journey together.
After getting married, and receiving his teaching degree at UBC, Ron and Dolly, having welcomed their first child Sean, headed to Salmon Arm, B.C. and a teaching vacancy offered in Sicamous. What was to be a one-year adventure from the city, turned into a lifetime of love of the Shuswap valley, and commitment to educational excellence in Salmon Arm. The family grew by one during these years, with the birth of Ron and Dolly’s 2nd child Tracy. Ron completed his master’s degree at Gonzaga University, and embarked on building a house for his family, in which he would live the rest of his life. His career with School district 89 flourished as well during this time, serving at many schools, first as counsellor, then Vice Principal, and finally as Principal. Throughout his educational career, Ron gave tirelessly of himself investing great thought and energy into ensuring every kid got the best experience possible out of their school years. He continued to act as an advocate and counsellor to countless “kids”, long after they had left the school system, devoting careful attention and advice to each person. His educational career culminated with participating in the design and opening of the new Senior Secondary school in Salmon Arm, and was deeply honored when later, the school was renamed after him.
Ron possessed a great curiosity for life, a strong belief in the inherent goodness of people and an incredible sense of humor. An itinerant traveler, he loved long road trips across the U.S. and exploring many parts of Europe. He combined a love of literature and music with a passion for gardening that consumed many hours of his retirement. Above all things, Ron was a family man. He deeply loved his Wife, children, and grandchildren. His laughter will be missed, but his conduct in life provided an amazing legacy for generations of his family to follow.
Ron was the beloved husband and best friend of his true love of 59 years, Dolly. He was the devoted and loving father of Sean (Kathleen) and Tracy.
Cherished Grandfather of Hunter, Alesia, Nolan, and Emma. Loving and protective big brother of Kerry (Ken) Polkey.
He was an adored Uncle and Cousin to many, whom he loved deeply. He was preceded in death by his older brother, Barry.
To honour Ron’s wishes, there will be no service. Please keep him in your hearts and memories, as he will, you.
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to the family, please visit our floral store.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Ronald Sullivan October 16 1942 May 29 2022 (age 79)..
Death notice for the town of: Salmon Arm, Province: Colombie britanique