Wilmot, Ronald D. (1939-2008)

WILMOT, CRAMTON, HILL, WRIGHT, OLSON, MURCOCK, HOYT, MASUOKA, SIVETS

Posted By: Mary Holub, volunteer (email)
Date: 6/14/2008 at 18:20:14

From: Le Mars Daily Sentinel, June 13, 2008

Ronald D. Wilmot, 69, of Akron, died unexpectedly Monday, June 9, 2008, while on a volunteer mission trip in Jalingo, Nigeria.

Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 18, at Akron-Westfield School gymnasium. Neil Peck, CLS, of Wesley United Methodist Church in Akron will officiate. Visitation with the family present will be Tuesday, June 17, from 5 to 8 p.m., in the Wesley Hall of Wesley United Methodist Church in Akron. Visitations will resume one hour prior to the memorial service at the school.

The Carlsen Funeral Home -- Schroeder Chapel in Akron is in charge of arrangements.

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From: Carlsen Funeral Home Website

Ronald D. Wilmot, 69, of Akron, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly Monday, June 9, 2008 while on a volunteer mission trip in Jalingo, Nigeria.

Memorial services will be 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at Akron-Westfield School gymnasium. Neil Peck, CLS, of Wesley United Methodist Church in Akron will officiate. Visitations with the family present will be Tuesday, June 17, 2008 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., in the Wesley Hall of Wesley United Methodist Church in Akron. Visitations will resume 1 hour prior to the Memorial service at the high school. The Carlsen Funeral Home – Schroeder Chapel in Akron is in charge of arrangements.

Ronald Dwain Wilmot was born January 6, 1939 in Chardon, Ohio, the son of Horace and Margaret (Cramton) Wilmot. He attended school in Chardon and graduated from Chardon High School. Following graduation, he attended Ohio State University for 2 years before transferring to Rocky Mountain College in Billings, Montana. He graduated with degrees in biology and religion.

Ron was united in marriage to Meriele Hill on September 8, 1962 in Middleburg Heights, Ohio. Ron began his career in Rapelje, Montana, in a small school where he taught science and social studies. In 1968, he and his family moved to Akron, Iowa, where Ron began his 36 year teaching career with the Akron-Westfield school district as a science teacher and then technology instructor. During his time, he was instrumental in the development the Lakeside Lab for environmental studies. He was a primary figure in obtaining funding for the Akron Wind Turbine. Ron enjoyed taking his students on environmental studies and outreach projects. In 2004, he retired, but continued to volunteer his time with the studies and projects.

In 2002, Ron made his first trip to Nigeria as a Volunteer in Mission for the United Methodist Church. Ron’s involvement in Nigeria led to several construction projects and the introduction of solar power. At the JSS School, a science education classroom, library, and other buildings were constructed. To improve water quality, Ron was also actively involved in the repair, construction, and installation of water wells and solar pumps. Ron brought solar refrigerators to medical clinics so that vaccines and other medications could be available for villages. He was always looking to make life better for others. When hearing of the A-3 plant, used in the treatment of malaria, Ron researched, located and delivered seeds to be planted and grown in Nigeria. Through his efforts, Nigerians have a cheap, accessible treatment for this devastating disease. His aide and commitment has improved the quality of life for thousands. This year marked his seventh trip to the region. With so many lives touched, Ron’s service and dedication to Nigeria will never be forgotten.

Ron was an active naturalist. He was a lifelong learner in science, technology, and religion. He spent many hours, days, and months as a volunteer for the church, community, and school. He was an active member of Wesley United Methodist, having held several offices and serving with many groups both locally and abroad. He had recently offered his services and time with the restoration and remodeling of Wesley Hall. He was currently serving on the Plymouth County Conservation board, Akron City Convalescent Care Center board, and the Akron Park board. He was a former Akron City council member and was elected to the Plymouth County Soil and Water Conservation District. He volunteered many hours with the Akron Children’s Center. He enjoyed his ham radio. He also enjoyed exploring the outdoors, camping, and hiking. He loved spending time with his family, friends, and his students. His knowledge and wisdom that was felt by so many will carry his legacy on forever. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his wife of over 45 years, Meriele; his five children: Dwain Wilmot of Akron, IA; Becky Wright and her husband Will of Claremore, OK and their children, Olivia and Evan; Jennifer Olson and her fiancé Daniel Bond of Boise, ID; Ronele Murdock and her husband Michael of Kansas City, MO, and her stepson Chase; and Aaron Wilmot and his wife Jaclyn of Denver, CO, and their children, Zionna and Yeniah; 2 brothers, Jim Wilmot and his wife Sandy of Dade City, FL; Frank Wilmot and his wife Lou of Great Falls, MT; 2 sisters, Beth Hoyt and her husband Dr. John of Traverse City, MI; and Mary Masuoka and her husband Dr. Kayo of Chardon, OH; and several nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Alice Sivets.