On September 6, 2023, "Papa" Ronald Arthur Dryden passed away peacefully, with his wife of 51 years, Pamela (Bogut) at his side.  Ron spent his final weeks surrounded by family and friends that loved him dearly. Although he was taken too soon, we find comfort in knowing that he's no longer in pain. Ron will forever be remembered for his courage, his strength and his unconditional love.

Born October 5, 1948, in Ellensburg, WA, to Donald and Wyona Dryden, Ron spent most of his young years growing up in the Spokane Valley/Mica area with his sisters Sandy Reandeau (Jim) and Marti Thompsen and his brother Del (Char) Dryden.

Ron graduated from Freeman High School in 1967.  Shortly after graduation, he went on to serve in the U.S. Army where he spent two years.  Upon returning home from the military, he met the love of his life, Pamela, and they began their life together on September 2, 1972. Ron and Pam spent some of their early years relocating for Ron's career, but they settled back in the Valleyford area to raise their four boys; Dean (Kamisha) Deer Park, WA, Donald (Amy) Rockford, WA, Delno (Nancy) Davidson, NC and David (Megan) Deer Park, WA.  To say Ron was proud of his boys would be a major understatement.  He never missed an opportunity to let them know.  Perhaps the only thing that brought Papa more pride and joy than four children of his own, were his ten grandchildren; Hunter and Brooklyn (Dean), Natalie, Andrew and Jared (Donald), Daniel and Sienna (Delno) and Kelsie, Lillianna and Ella (David).  It was rare for Papa to miss a sporting event, dance recital, assembly or any event involving his grandkids. There wasn't a bigger fan in the crowd than Papa!

In 2010, Ron and Pam moved to Deer Park, where Papa won the hearts of so many.  He became everybody's Papa. To know him was to love him.  Ron loved life and loved all people. "Everyday is a good day when my eyes are open," he often said and he truly meant it. He made the best out of his days and made sure that everybody around him knew how much he loved them.  Papa greeted people with a friendly smile, followed by a big hug or a firm handshake. Anybody that knew him, knew how much he enjoyed talking.  His favorite topics were old cars, grandkids, sports and beer, not necessarily in that order.  But Papa also enjoyed listening.  He cared what others had to say.  Young or old, near or far, Ron was your friend for life.

Ron spent his retirement years traveling with his wife, chatting with his boys, chasing grandkids, golfing with his good buddies and working in his shop that he had always dreamed of building.  He spent countless hours there with his sons and grandchildren; working on cars, visiting, and even some dancing.  Some of our fondest memories of Papa were in that shop.

We would like to invite family and friends to join us in his shop for an "open house" style memorial to celebrate his life on October 14th, 2023 from 3pm to 8pm.  Food and drinks will be served.  Bring a chair and a good story to tell. Please reach out to the family if you need location information.

l'Il leave my heart wide open.

I will love and have no fear.

When I get where I'm going, Don't cry for me down here.