Ronald Millard

Ronald K. Millard October 1, 1946 – August 7, 2025

Ronald “Ron” K. Millard passed away peacefully on August 7, 2025, following a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Though his family mourns his loss deeply, they take comfort in knowing he is now free from suffering and reunited with cherished loved ones—especially his beloved son Kevin, who passed away at a young age.

Ron was born on October 1, 1946, in Tooele, Utah, to Carl Joseph Millard and Thelma Kirkup Olson. He grew up on the Tooele Ordinance Depot alongside his siblings, JoAnn Millard and Carl Blaine Millard. Life was not easy—both of Ron’s parents were injured in a car accident when he was young, and the family struggled with poverty. The children owned just two sets of clothes: one for play and one kept clean for school. The family eventually moved to Salt Lake City where at the age of 11, Ron began working any odd jobs he could find, giving all his earnings to help his mother. At 16, Ron began working at Rocky Mountain Honey Company, where for the first time he was able to keep a portion of his wages for himself.

Ron attended Horace Mann Junior High and West High School, later earning an Associate of Science Degree from Weber State College and a Bachelor of Science Degree from Westminster College.

At 17, Ron met Barbara “Bobbi” Dansie through friends, and the two quickly fell in love. They married on November 21, 1964, beginning 60 wonderful years together. Ron and Bobbi felt they “grew up” together, building a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. They had three children: Ronald Kevin (deceased), Paula, and Kelly.

Ron proudly served the Salt Lake City Police Department for 38 years, beginning his career as a patrolman before earning the rank of Sergeant. Over the years, he worked in many divisions as a detective, including homicide, narcotics, and intelligence. His undercover assignments often required him to grow a beard and wear his hair long so he could seamlessly blend in with those he was investigating. His dedication, bravery, and integrity left a lasting impact on the department and the community he served.

Outside of work, Ron was a natural tinkerer and handyman who was constantly fixing, remodeling, and building. His projects often came with a few battle scars, from cuts to broken bones, but nothing ever slowed him down. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle, golfing, watching classic movies, traveling with Bobbi (often indulging her love of exploring the world), and metalworking. Christmas was his favorite holiday, and he embraced it wholeheartedly from the shopping and decorating to the festive treats.

Ron’s humor and playful spirit were legendary. He loved making people laugh and never missed an opportunity to bring joy to others. He will be remembered for his resilience, his generosity, and his unwavering love for his family.

Ron is survived by his devoted wife, Bobbi; his daughter Paula (Pete) Sawyer; and his son Kelly (Beth) Millard. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister JoAnn Millard, his brother Carl Blaine Millard, and his son Kevin.

A visitation with family will be held at 2:00 pm, followed by a graveside internment service at 3:00 pm on October 3, 2025, at Memorial Redwood Mortuary & Cemetery, 6500 South Redwood Road, West Jordan. Friends and family are warmly invited to join.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Carrington Court and Inspiration Home Health and Hospice for their compassionate care and unwavering support to both Ron and the family.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Alzheimer's Association.