Ronald R. Elliott, age 79, passed away peacefully on Friday morning February 3rd, 2023, at the Cherry Co. Hospital in Valentine Nebraska. Ron was born on January 12, 1944, in Ravenna Nebraska to Harry and Tracy Elliott. He attended Elementary School at Antelope Valley and high school at Thomas Co. High School. While attending Thomas Co. High School Ron enjoyed being involved in all sports. At the age of 26 Ron found a young girl to give a diamond to and ask her to marry him. Virginia K. Belville said yes, and they were married on June 1, 1969, in Valentine Nebraska. Pearson Land and Cattle is where the couple resided and then were blessed with three beautiful children: Michael S. Elliott, Shawn W. Elliott, and Deb L. Long. In Billy VerBeek’s teenage years, Ron and Virginia gained another one. Whether it be calving cows, fixing fence, or AI season Ron enjoyed his hard-working days as a rancher and most of his days he could be found on the back of a horse; one of his most favorite places to be. The ranching life gave him the opportunity to spend his working days with his family, his wife, children, and very adored grandchildren. In his free-time he enjoyed watching sports, hunting, ice-fishing, golfing, cooking, playing cards, and anything that involved his family and grandkids. After retiring from the ranching life Ron couldn’t stay away from barbed wire and his love for fencing. He started his small business, Grandpa’s Crosses. He enjoyed spending hours and hours in the garage twisting and un-twisting barbed wire to make the perfect piece of décor. If he wasn’t making crosses, he was supporting at least one of his grandchildren whether it be from the comfort of his recliner or on the road traveling. Some of Ron’s fondest memories and stories he told came from a trip he took to Australia and New Zealand with his brother Bill. His other stories that had him smiling from ear to ear came from hunting trips in the mountains. Ron had a contagious smile and laugh when it came to his story telling. One that will never be forgotten. Ron will always be remembered by his tough outer layer with the most warm and loving heart.Ron was preceded in death by Parents: Harry and Tracy Elliott. Sister: Delores Barnes. Sons: Michael S. Elliott and Shawn W. Elliott. Son in-law: Zane O. LongRon is survived by Wife: Virginia K. Elliott. Daughter: Deb Long. Grandchildren: Sheyanne Wheeler (Jake), Garrett Long (special friend: Jacque Leonhardt), Makenzie Elliott, Shaylee Elliott, Laramie Elliott, and Ty Elliott; brothers, Bill Elliott (Connie), Loren Elliott and Wayne Elliott (MarriAnn).Funeral service for Ron Elliott age 79 of Valentine will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023 at 2:00 PM at the Presbyterian Church in Valentine. Graveside service will be held prior to the funeral at 10:00 AM at the Hillcrest Cemetery in Thedford. Visitation with family present will be on Monday, Feb. 6 from 4 to 7PM at Sandoz chapel of the Pines in Valentine. Mr. Elliott passed away on Feb. 3 at the Cherry Co. Hospital in Valentine.
