Ronald Francis Milles passed away peacefully on November 19, 2023 with his family by his side in Tacoma.

Born November 16, 1942 to Charles and Velma Milles in Denver, Colorado, he was the sixth of seven brothers, eventually settling in Palisade and Grand Junction during his childhood.

Ron dearly loved his family - and country. He served 40-plus years in the United States Army Reserve and National Guard.

Ron wed Linda Swendsen on September 1, 1972 at Gethsemane Lutheran Church in Tacoma. Together, they had five children: sons, Chris, Todd and Troy; and daughters, Tami and Tonya.

Ron also was a mechanic fitter at Pacific Car & Foundry (PACCAR) in Renton. And after he retired from his lengthy military service in 2001, he was a custodian in Federal Way Public Schools and at St. Joseph Medical Center - and taught custodial classes through Goodwill Industries International, Inc.

A devout Christian, Ron and his family attended Gethsemane Lutheran Church/United Lutheran Church and Portland Avenue Evangelical Free Church in Tacoma.

Ron is survived by Linda, his wife of 51 years; children, Chris, Todd, Troy, Tami (Tony) and Tonya (Rigo); nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; brothers, Orlando, David (Bernadette) and Randy; as well as many in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Velma; and brothers, Charles Jr., John and Roy.

His funeral is Friday, January 12 at the Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent (11:30 a.m.).

A "Celebration of Life" for Ron is Saturday, January 13 at Puyallup Community Baptist Church (1 p.m.). Address is 1318 9th Avenue Southwest, Puyallup, 98371.

Donations in Ron's behalf can be made to American Heart Association or The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County.