Ronald Joseph Kloempken, a longtime Wishkah Valley resident, died on Feb. 24, 2022, at Providence St. Peter Hospital. He was 82.
Ron was born on July 1, 1939 to Geneva (Russell) and Raymond Kloempken in Aberdeen, Washington. He attended St. Mary School through the eighth grade and graduated from Weatherwax High School in 1957.
Ron served as a corporal in the Marine Corps before taking a job as a finish carpenter with Major Line Products in Hoquiam where he was employed for several years. He then went on to work in heavy construction for the remainder of his career.
Ron married Ceceil Yvonne Riemann on Sept. 2, 1961 in Aberdeen. He was the proud father of three sons, all of whom followed in his footsteps working in the construction industry. All three have fond memories of growing up watching and learning from their dad on his job sites, most notably a couple of summers the family camped at Kloochman and Matheny Creeks where Ron was working.
Early in his career, Ron enjoyed the opportunity to lead a crew on the Wynoochee Dam project. Later, he was employed by both Quiggs and Rognlins as a working foreman and had a hand in building many bridges throughout Washington state, primarily on the Olympic Peninsula. He was also instrumental in the completion of many local projects including the Emerson School in Hoquiam and the remodel of Grays Harbor Community Hospital. He retired from Rognlins in 1999.
As a young man, Ron’s favorite hobbies included building and racing cars, and participating in a weekly bowling league. In his later years, he spent time closer to home maintaining his beautiful yard and garden. He loved eating all types of seafood, particularly crab, clams and oysters. All his children and grandchildren inherited that culinary proclivity.
A highlight of his retirement was a much anticipated road trip to Alaska with his wife, Yvonne.
Ron will be remembered by his loved ones as a diligent worker, a dependable provider and a wise source of advice. His suggestions for the best way to build or repair something will be greatly missed.
Ron is survived by his three sons: Ron Jr. (Rawni), John (Jill) and Mike (Lisa); six grandchildren: Josh (April), Kasie, Nate, Sam, Hannah and Levi; and three great-grandchildren: Mason, Carter and Emily. He is also survived by his brothers: Robert, Charles, Raymond Jr. and Lewis; his sisters Pat Patton and Mary Banks, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Arrangements are entrusted to Harrison Family Mortuary in Aberdeen. A memorial service will be announced in the near future.
