James "Ron" Ronald Furner

“Ron”
James Ronald Furner, 73, passed away at home on December 23, 2008, from a year and a half battle with esophageal and stomach cancer. He was born on October 14, 1935, in Salt Lake City to George Thomas and Sarah Ruth Taylor Furner. He attended South High and the University of Utah, and on August 5, 1960, he married Lois Ladeen Kunze in the Logan Temple.
Ron was a top salesman, selling law books to attorneys, judges and law libraries in Utah, Idaho, Wyoming and Nevada for over 25 years. His passion for sales was reflected in his success and he won many trips enabling he and his wife to travel around the world, making lasting memories. After he retired, he and his wife served numerous missions for the LDS Church. They were service missionaries in the Laotian/Thai branch, and the University of Utah 1st Stake , and a full time mission at LDS Business College. He loved meeting new people, and was able to share his love with many during his missions. He was often referred to as “Grandpa” by the youth he worked with, the students at the college, and many others. He is known for the wonderful hugs that he shared freely—bringing happiness and joy to others.
Ron enjoyed cooking and loved to share with family and friends.
Ron is survived by his wife of 48 years, Ladeen Furner; his three sons, James (Janet), Blaine (Cyndi), Mark (Kelly); daughter, Becckie; eight grandchildren, Travis, Trevor, Chanelle, Calli, Tyler, Jeremy, Megan and Ashley; brothers, Boyd, George and Fred; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Ruth and Maxine; and brothers, Ben, Grant and Taylor.
Many thanks to Barbara, Dana and Vivian for their loving care and concern helping with his end-of-life transition.
Funeral services will be held Monday, December 29, 2008, at 11:00 am at the Little Cottonwood 14th Ward (1160 East Vine Street). Family and friends may call at Jenkins-Soffe Mortuary (4760 South State Street, Murray), Sunday evening from 5-7 pm and at the ward on Monday from 9:30-10:45 am prior to services. Interment will be in the Salt Lake City Cemetery.