Ronald Dean Coleman

August 16, 1948 – November 5, 2025

Ronald Dean Coleman, age 77, passed away on November 5, 2025. A beloved father and grandfather, Ron will be remembered for his strength, quick wit, and creativity.

Ron was born on August 16, 1948, in Eugene, Oregon. During his early childhood, his family lived along the highway with cows and a bull. He enjoyed the animals and though the bull was known for his ornery nature, Ron fondly recalled taking naps on its back. Later, his parents opened the “Y” Bowling Alley and Café at the intersection of Highway 99 East and West and the family lived above the bowling alley. His father ran the bowling alley, his mother the café, and Ron could often be found behind the lanes clearing pin jams and reading books while waiting—an experience he later joked may have contributed to his hearing loss. He became an avid bowler, competing at the state level in youth bowling tournaments and winning the Oregon State Bowling Championship.

After graduating from high school, Ron joined the United States Marine Corps at just 17 years old, with his mother’s signed permission. He turned 18 that August and was soon deployed to Vietnam. During his service, the tent he was working in was struck by a mortar. Ron lost his pinky and ring finger on his left hand and sustained severe damage to his middle finger, along with shrapnel injuries to his back and legs, and he was awarded the Purple Heart.

Following his military service, Ron attended Lane Community College, earning an Associate of Arts degree. He began his professional career with Farwest Steel in IT Communications, and later moved to Northern California. He went on to join McKesson Corporation’s IT Department, eventually becoming involved in a venture-capital-backed startup, MedChoice, where he led IT operations.

Ron later co-founded MarCole Enterprises with Sandy Markus, a company that developed and sold gift registry systems for retailers and evolved into a successful software-as-a-service business. Ron served as President for 24 years.

Outside of work, Ron found his greatest joy in family and hands-on pursuits. He loved spending time at Donner Lake, driving the boat and pulling friends and family on inflatables, water skis, and wakeboards. He was an incredible craftsman and could fix nearly anything - whether it be plumbing, electrical, or a hole in the wall of his own making. He was a constant presence at his children’s sporting events and helping with scouting activities—especially the Pinewood Derby. He was always eager to teach his kids practical skills. He enjoyed gardening and especially growing his own fruits and vegetables. Woodworking was a lifelong passion and something that he excelled at. His dream of owning a large, fully equipped workshop was realized in Junction City after he moved back to Oregon. In his later years, Ron enjoyed raising cattle, woodworking, playing cards, and spending time with family.

Those who knew Ron will remember his humor, his steadiness, and the way he showed up—always present, always dependable. His presence filled a room, and his absence leaves a space that can never be replaced. He is survived by his sisters Evelyn Hentze and Carol Doyle, his children Carrie Steele, Tracy Coleman, Tina Maughan, Alexandra Moore, and Aaron Coleman, as well as his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many extended family members and friends.

He will be deeply missed and forever honored.