Santa Clara, Utah – Ronald George Whitehead unexpectedly passed from this life on Monday, September 25, 2023, at the age of 67. He was born in St. George, Utah, on March 3, 1956, to Evan Gardner and Mae Gubler Whitehead, of St. George and Santa Clara, Utah. Ron and his sweet, eternal companion, Lori, adventured and made memories together for 45 years, with their daughter, Amber, and two grandchildren - their whole world.

Ron enjoyed being a lifetime Southern Utah gentleman, and contagiously carried a tenacious spirit to take in all it has to offer. Many nights were spent under the softball lights, either watching the game, playing the game, or taking the dogs on a walk with Lori while games were happening.  One of his greatest joys in life - something he took tremendous pride in - was catching a bullpen for his daughter to watch her compete on the pitcher's mound the next day.  Even through the bumps and bruises, Ron wore a smile any time he was able to watch Amber play ball. He also had quite the competitive edge himself. Over the years, Ron played on several city league softball teams and just last year earned his "20-Year Competitor" Award for the Huntsman World Senior Games, in which he won not only many medals, but lasting friendships that he sincerely cherished.  His presence will be missed on the field not just for his athleticism, but also his unwavering ability to be a great teammate.

In Ron's book, the schedule could always be cleared for a good day on the lake with good friends Clay and Carolyn Bulloch. In fact, when Ron was involved with any type of water equipment, he quickly forgot his age and drove like a crazy teenager. He also loved camping, snow skiing, and hunting, all of which to him meant quality time with family and friends. One of his fondest memories was his hunting trip with Amber to Alaska. They returned with a prize moose, which he proudly hung in their garage.

Ron graduated from Dixie High School in 1974. It was during this time that his career interest started to take form when he had the opportunity to lay out a golf course in St. George. There were still important things to do before then, though, so upon graduating his journey took him to Dixie College, then Southern Utah State College. Cedar City, Utah gifted him something so beautiful in meeting Lori Ludlow, who quickly stole his whole heart. They were married on December 7, 1978. In 1986, they welcomed their precious daughter, Amber, and have further enjoyed spoiling their two grandchildren, Ripp and Rylie.

After earning his degree in Land Surveying and obtaining licensure in not only Utah, but three surrounding states, Ron began his career path with Bush & Gudgell in 1984.  He held in high esteem his career as a dedicated community member of Washington County. In the last 39 years, he has served in several City and County positions, including Santa Clara City Council, Santa Clara City Planning Commission, and was Washington County Public Works Director for 23 years.  Ron was also a member of the UCLS (Utah Council of Land Surveyors) Color Country Chapter.

He received the UCLS lifetime Achievement Award in 2019, serving as their Chairman in 1994-1995 and 2003-2005 as well as Co-Chairman for multiple years. His expertise was highly sought after as he served as the UCLS' Director to WFPS (Western Federation of Professional Surveyors) for over 20 years, receiving well-deserved recognition as Surveyor of the Year in both 2003 and 2004.  He was a current member of the Utah Association of County Surveyors and a current Certified Federal Surveyor (CFedS) panel member. Even with a list of accomplishments, the people are what really mattered most to him.  The relationships formed throughout his years of service meant so much to him.

Ron was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He honored his duty as a Priesthood holder, serving in his ward as High Priest. His favorite calling, however, was his time spent in the Multi-Stake Special Needs Program. Ron and Lori were blessed to fulfill this calling together as partners for five years. During this time, they got to know and love so many wonderful kids and their families who truly influenced their lives in a forever positive way.

We are sure a happy reunion took place in Heaven as Ron was welcomed back into the arms of his parents and in-laws, grandparents, a brother-in-law, a niece and nephew, and Our Savior. While we are certain the reunion was beautiful, his presence will be greatly missed by his loving wife, Lori; their daughter, Amber (Westin) Hollingsworth of Preston, Idaho; two grandchildren; and three siblings: Nadine, Doug, and Gary. He will also be fondly remembered by his brothers and sisters-in-law, with several nieces and nephews who admired and looked up to him so much.  When we think of Ron, it will always be for his light-hearted, joking personality, easy-going demeanor, and a love for every opportunity this life presented him.

Ron's family would like to thank all who have shown their love and support during this difficult and unexpected loss.  We are sincerely grateful and forever appreciative of all of you.

Until we meet again, Ron, go catch a game for us. We love you.

A visitation will be held Thursday, September 28, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd., St. George, Utah.

A second visitation will be held Friday, September 29, 2023, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Santa Clara LDS Church located at 3815 Rachel Drive, Santa Clara, Utah.

A private graveside service will take place in the Santa Clara City Cemetery.