Ronald Leo Yoakum

Ron Yoakum, a big-hearted man who would do anything he could to enjoy the people around him, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2021 with his family comforting him.

Ron, son of Lorraine and Claude Yoakum, was born into hardworking coal mining and farming families in Boonville, Indiana on September 10, 1938. At six years of age, Ron's parents moved the family to the west coast for Claude's military service, eventually settling in Pacific Grove and welcoming his much loved brother, Ed. Ron graduated from Pacific Grove High in 1956 and enlisted in the US Navy, becoming a father in 1960 and again in 1963 to two daughters. His navy service took him to many parts of the Pacific where he worked as a machinist. Those skills led to a lifetime of home projects, especially woodworking. His family's hard work was instilled in him and he shined as an example of it for his family during his years as a Hostess, Paisano, Toscano, and Keebler salesman.

Ron and his young family moved to Watsonville in 1964 where they have thrived and grown in love with their adopted hometown. Ron quickly found opportunities to serve the community and built long friendships through Jaycees, where he served as President and Fourth of July Parade Chairman, coaching Pop Warner football and Little League, and leading 4H groups. Ron's children still hear stories of silliness and fondness from their friends and his former athletes. He was dearly loved by everyone who ever met him.

In 1977, Ron married the love of his life and best friend Barbara. They enjoyed nearly 44 years of marriage with their combined families. They traveled to Italy, the East Coast and on many cruises with family and friends, most remarking how hard it was to keep up with their energy! The highlight of every year was a vacation to Lake Tahoe where they enjoyed family and quiet time reading, biking, swimming and exploring.

Ron leaves his wife, Barbara, daughters Elaine (Pete) Legorreta and Barbara Yoakum, and their children Sarah Legorreta (Edward delaLoza), Erin Legorreta (Fred Martinez), Samantha Legorreta, Hailey Yoakum and Isabella Popek; great grandchildren Damian delaLoza, Sophia delaLoza, Amelia Martinez, Olivia Martinez, Penelope Martinez. Ron also leaves his brother Ed (Carol) Yoakum. In addition, his much loved stepchildren Mark (Ann) Corley, Sue (Gary) Smith, and Scott Corley; grandchildren Brett Bernhardt, Samuel Caldwell, Jacob (Nikki) Caldwell, and Sabrina Corley. Many extended family members and friends have a hole in their heart today. We know he is still rooting for us in everything we do.

We want to thank Ave Maria Memorial Chapel for all their help.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 11, 2021. Please RSVP to Mark Corley at 831-234-3915 or markcorley@outlook.com for details.

Published in The Pajaronian · August 19, 2021