Tributes

Ronald J. Gonsalves, 77, passed away Thanksgiving morning at home. Ron’s death comes after an extended battle with cancer, but he will be remembered for his lifelong dedication to his family and the Turlock community. Ron leaves his wife of 55 years, Lorraine, his sons, Doug and Rodney and their families. Ron was blessed with the opportunity to know and love his five grandchildren and his one-year old great grandson, the newest addition to the family. Ron will also be missed by his many close friends and extended family members. Born and raised in Turlock, the son of Manuel and Grace Gonsalves, Ron was a lifelong resident of Turlock and active in the community. A graduate of Turlock High School, he met his wife at Modesto Junior College and they were married at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in 1961. In 1970, while working at International Paper Company, Ron chose to return to his roots of farming and purchased a block of farm property on which he planted a relatively unknown crop at the time, almonds. Once the land came into production, Ron left his position at International Paper and farmed full time. Ron also took over management of his father’s ranch and later transitioned the ground from grapes to almonds. Ron also ventured into other operations, including custom harvesting and farm property development. Ron was also active in Blue Diamond Growers, where he served several terms on the Liaison Committee. In 2008, Ron was awarded a Certificate of Recognition from the California State Senate, California State Assembly and County of Stanislaus for his service to the city of Turlock and the agriculture industry. Ron will best be remembered for the great joy he received from his favorite hobby of golf, and time spent socializing and with family. A longtime member of the Turlock Country Club, Ron held various leadership positions including serving as board member and then President from 2004-2006. During these past few years as Ron valiantly battled cancer, he hung up the golf clubs but remained active with Club activities and farming. He drew strength from his friends and family, and lived each day with passion knowing that he would eventually be out on the course again. Ron will truly be missed. Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thurs. Dec. 1, followed by a rosary at 6 p.m. at Turlock Funeral Home, 425 N. Soderquist, Rd., Turlock, CA. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Fri. Dec. 2, at the same location. Private interment will be held. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial gifts to your favorite charities.

Tributes

Ronald John Gonsalves

August 20, 1939 - November 24, 2016