Ronald Arthur Rafanelli

Ronald Arthur Rafanelli was born and raised in Healdsburg, CA.

On June 8, 2025 with angels' wings he peacefully joined our Lord at age 77.

Ron went to St. John's Catholic School and then to Healdsburg High School. He graduated in 1966 and went on to Santa Rosa Junior College then to Sonoma State University. During the Vietnam War he enlisted in the National Guard.

Every year growing up, Ron and his father went deer hunting on horseback across the Ruby Mountains in Nevada.

They also belonged to a duck hunting club. Ron was an excellent marksman. He also loved to fish and was one of the best fishermen in town.

In the mid 60's he and his friends formed ""The Persuaders," a band that played throughout the San Francisco Bay Area sharing venues with ""The Byrds,"" Creedence Clearwater Revival"" and ""Styx.""

Ron was known as: ""The Man, the Myth and the Legend.""

""The Man"" of honesty, integrity and respect for others.

""The Myth"" he was arrogant; he was far from that; he was a peace maker always caring and loving.

""The Legend"" is how he made a difference in the California Wine Industry with Healdsburg Winery Machine Company.

Ron also got his pilots license and his commercial pilots license to deliver equipment across the USA and Mexico.

Ron was a lover not a fighter. What he loved he did passionately.

Ron always wanted a child and in 1993 his prayers were answered when his daughter Carly Nicole Rafanelli was born.

Ron and Lori were together for 24 years and married the last 12 years of his life.

Ron is survived by his loving wife Lori Rafanelli; daughter, Carly Rafanelli (Anthony); stepdaughter, Stephanie Ponzo (Mike); step grandson, Jacob Ponzo (Evan); step granddaughter, Faith Ponzo; his cousins: Joan Walker, Linda Lucciani and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Ron was preceded in death by his father Art Rafanelli; his mother Betty Lou Rafanelli; aunts: Dolores Kovacovich, Olga Lucciani, Gloria Walker, Eva Haywood and Tosca; uncles: Francis Rafanelli, Robert Rafanelli; cousins: Gordy Walker, Randy Hassenzahl, and Lonnie Haywood.

Ron will be dearly missed. Rest in peace my love.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at 11:00AM at St. John's Catholic Church.

Celebration reception to follow at the church hall.

Private entombment to be held at Santa Rosa Memorial Park.

Published in Healdsburg Tribune · June 19, 2025