Ron passed away peacefully in Billings, Montana on July 11, 2019 at 86 years old. He was happy, strong and alert for nearly all of his days. After suffering a stroke in March, he and his wife Dee went into a wonderful assisted living facility. He kept his sense of humor and ability to have intelligent, insightful, and wise conversations right up until the end.

I became his step-son when he married my mom. He had no children of his own, but considered me his son. I always told him he raised me since I was about 35 years old. I was happy to have Ron in my life. I enjoyed his sense of humor and loving spirit. He was an incredible husband to my mom, Dee Giffin, as she struggled with Alzheimer’s for at least the last 15 years. He doted on her and treated her like a queen.

Ron was a husband, teacher, multi-instrumental musician, writer, philosopher, ordained minister, master watch-maker, and piano tuner. He always had a smile and kind word, and was genuinely interested in hearing other thoughts and ideas. We had many long conversations about spirituality, culture, politics, religion, music, comedy, movies, and just about any other subject you can think of.

My mom, Dee Giffin (Delois Evans / Delois Asher) passed away peacefully on September 21, 2019. Although she battled Alzheimer’s she, like Ron, maintained her sense of humor and loving spirit right up until the end.

Dee moved to Billings, Montana after she and my dad divorced. She met Ron, who was a widower, and they got married just a couple weeks after meeting. They loved spending every minute together, and as long as they were able, they welcomed friends and strangers alike to their home for meals and conversation. They were happiest relaxing in their matching recliners, watching television, and chatting with each other and visitors. They understood the value of simple pleasures.

They are interred at Mountview Cemetery in Billings, Montana.