Ronald Charles Esselstyn

ESSELSTYN — Ronald Charles, 78; born Jan. 16, 1943, Pendleton, Oregon; died May 6, 2021, Pilot Rock, Oregon. Surviving: spouse, Sue (Wagner).

Ronald Charles Esselstyn 78, of Pendleton died May 6, 2021 at his home. He was born Jan. 16, 1943, at St. Anthony Hospital to Rodney William and Dorothy Mary Gang Esselstyn. He was raised in Echo, Oregon, where he attended school until his parents' divorce in 1953.

He and his mom moved to Walla Walla, Washington, where he attended Paine and Baker elementary schools, Garrison Jr. High and Walla Walla High School. He later moved to Pendleton to live with his dad Rod and wife Elaine. Right out of high school, he enlisted in the Army on Aug. 5, 1963. He served in Vietnam and was injured on Aug. 27, 1965. While on a mission in a Huey chopper, Ron was the first to depart the chopper and immediately surprised by sniper fire. He was thrown off balance and fell into the helicopter's tail rotor, sustaining a severe head injury. After many months of rehab, he was able to walk again and even ran marathons. In May 2015, he had to start using a wheelchair due to long-term damage from his accident. He was later awarded a Purple Heart.

He attended Blue Mountain Community College for two years, taking general studies classes. He was employed by General Tire for a year and as an appraiser for the Umatilla County Assessor's Office from 1970-1992. He was married to Karen Armstrong from 1967 until 1976. He married Sue Wagner on Nov. 21, 2005.  

Ron loved sports, especially basketball and running. He also liked music and animals. He had a lot of pets and treated them well. A graveside service with military honors was held on May 15, 2021.