Rolland Frank Gilmore's Obituary
Rolland (Ron) Frank Gilmore died peacefully at home with his children Dec. 25, 2015. Ron was born in Manchester, Iowa in 1929 and graduated from Washburn High School in Minneapolis in 1947. He married his high school sweetheart, Nona Marie Hanson. She preceded him in death in 1999 after 50 years of marriage. Ron served in the Marine Corp reserves for 9 years, 2 of which were active duty. Ron joined the Tacoma Police Department as a patrolman in 1953, retiring as Captain of Detectives in 1983 after 30 years of service.
Ron was active in the community helping many civic and philanthropic organizations working with the city’s youth. He was Troop Leader of the Fircrest Boy Scout Troop 47 for many years. Ron twice served as chairman of the board of the Tacoma Elks Club. He and Nona were principle organizers and officers of the Totem Skiers who performed snow ski and water ski shows in the area.
Since retiring, Ron spent much of his time in his woodworking shop creating handmade gifts for family and friends. He also enjoyed traveling, taking his camping trailer to visit friends, family and new destinations around the country. His travels also included more exotic destinations, such as the Mediterranean and South America.
Ron is survived by his three children, Jeanette Howlett, Kari Moser, Donald Gilmore, three grandchildren Jeffrey Achuff, Elizabeth Achuff, Stephanie Gilmore and five great-grandchildren. Also survived by his sisters Nancy Parlog, Kathy Singleton and Anna Calvert.
A memorial service will be held at Mountain View Funeral Home Valley Chapel, 4100 Steilacoom Blvd. SW. on Monday January 11, 2016 at 12:00/PM. A reception will follow at the Mountain View Celebration of Life, Oak Room. Family and friends kindly invited.
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