Ronald Boat

Ronald Boat passed away on August 25, 2023, in Seaside, Oregon. He was a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many with his dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to his loved ones.

Born on March 17, 1944, in White City, Oregon, Ronald grew up in a supportive and loving family. His parents, Roy and Grace Boat, instilled in him strong values and a deep sense of integrity that shaped him into the exceptional person he became. 

Ronald graduated from Grants Pass High School in 1963. Eager to further his knowledge and develop new skills, he pursued associate degrees from both Utah Technical College and Divers Institute of Technology. At Utah Tech, he specialized in machining; while at DIT he dove headfirst into the world of hard hat commercial diving.

As an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Ronald deeply valued spirituality and community involvement. He dedicated himself to Boy Scouts of America for an astounding eighteen years as a Scoutmaster. His passion for scouting positively influenced countless young lives.

Ronald's friendly disposition endeared him to many friends over the years. His warmth and compassion were evident in every interaction he had with others. He had a zest for life and pursued numerous hobbies and interests. Ron found solace in scuba diving, basket weaving, lapidary, loom weaving, jewelry making, canoeing, fishing, hunting, and archery. These activities allowed him to showcase his creativity and venture into the great outdoors that he cherished so deeply.

Ronald Boat is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Susan Diane (Graham) Boat. He also leaves behind a legacy of love through his children: Christina Scouten (Grant) of Tacoma, WA; Todd Boat (Wendy) of Graham, WA; Sheila Kauth (Bill) of Sweet Home, OR; Steven Boat of Seaside, OR; Greg Boat (Ann-Marie) of Seaside, OR; and Merry Alires (Jonathan) of Spokane Valley, WA; 25 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Ronald is also survived by his cherished siblings: Lona Baumann (Bruce) of Roseburg, OR, Joan Mendelsohn of Quartzsite AZ., and Don Boat (Gwen) of Grants Pass.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Lawrence Melvin Boat; and two of his children, Michael Allen Boat and Patricia Ann Davila.

Today we gather to remember and celebrate the life of Ronald Boat. His impact on those around him was immeasurable. Ronald will forever remain in our hearts as an exceptional individual who touched our lives with his loving nature and unwavering dedication to his craft and loved ones.

A funeral service will be held to honor Ronald's memory on September 2, 2023, from 12:00 PM to 12:45 PM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located at 1403 Wahanna Road in Seaside Oregon. A grave dedication will follow at Evergreen Cemetery.