May 20, 2021

Ronald L. “Ron” Oda, of McMurray, passed away Wednesday, May 5, 2021, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Ron was born September 18, 1948, in Tacoma, Wash., a son to the late Kuzami Oda and Nancy Kanai. He spent all of his childhood and was raised in Portland, Ore.

He is survived by Dana Provence, his love of 35 years; an uncle, Dyke Kanai of Denver, Colo.; numerous cousins in the Portland area; and many loving friends.

Ron received his bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Colorado and a master’s degree from Scripps Institution of Oceanography, a department of UC San Diego. He spent most of his professional working career as a research engineer with CONSOL Energy. After retiring, Ron continued to do consulting work for CONSOL R&D until 2015.

Ron enjoyed windsurfing, fly fishing, learning to play the bagpipes, and traveling the world with Dana.

He was a member of the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) and Therapy Dogs International. Ron’s life was truly enriched by his canine companions, King and Gus. Together, they spent 15 years putting smiles on faces and spreading joy to those they visited in hospitals and nursing homes.

A gathering to celebrate Ron’s life will be held from 11 a.m. until the time of his memorial service at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 22, in Beinhauer Funeral Home, 2828 Washington Road, McMurray (724-941-3211).

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Washington Area Humane Society, Therapy Dogs International or a charity of one’s choice.

Visit beinhauer.com to view livestream service and to leave tributes.