Ronald Gilson Southwick

Ronald Gilson Southwick, age 84, of Grants Pass, died December 7, 2021 at his home surrounded by his family and friends.

Ron was born February 23, 1937 in Coquille, Oregon to Gilson & Bertha Southwick. He grew up in Albany, Oregon and graduated from Albany High School. At age 19, he enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany. After his honorable discharge, he returned to Albany and worked in a plywood mill. He eventually moved to Grants Pass and worked swing-shift at the plywood mill on M Street. He was later promoted to finish-end foreman, working day-shift until his retirement after 44 years working in plywood mills.

Ron especially enjoyed fishing on the Rogue River at Gold Beach with his bothers, Gordon and Kenny. He also loved planting and hanging 26 potted plants and flowers along his porch every year.

He was a member of local bowling leagues. He taught his children to work hard, be honest, save money, be gracious and have gratitude. His words of wisdom and favorite saying was “It Could Be Worse.”

Survivors include daughter Laura Eugenie Hunt and husband David Gregory Hunt of Grants Pass; son Ronald Edwin Southwick of Portland; grandchildren, David Lee Hunt, Andi Leigh Hunt, Katherine Southwick and Parker Southwick; and brothers Kenneth Southwick and his wife, Katie, and Gordon Southwick and his wife, Terri; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son David Lee Southwick on July 19, 1999, parents, and sister, JoAnn Dombrowsky.

A gathering of family and friends will be at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, December 19, 2021 at Hull & Hull Funeral Directors. Private inurnment will be at Eagle Point National Cemetery.