Ronald Lee Bradford

SSG Ronald Lee Bradford, 56, passed away in the early hours on Monday, Jan. 22, 2024, in Libby, Montana, after a courageous battle with ALS, aka Lou Gehrig’s disease. 

Born on Oct. 31, 1967, in Prince George's, Maryland, Ron was the eldest son of the four children of Donald Bradford and Nancy Bradford.

Ron was raised in California where he participated in hobbies including the school band, wrestling team and was an avid artist. Ron graduated from King City High School as a member of the Class of 1986. Shortly after graduation, Ron moved to Michigan where he attended the Macomb Community College pursuing a career in architecture. 

In a turn of events, Ron made a change of career plans and enlisted in the United States Army where he found himself actively rising through the ranks and retiring after 25 years of service. He served much of his time overseas serving multiple campaigns in Iraq and Kosovo earning medals and awards for his contributions. 

Just like how Ron’s plans for college didn't quite go as planned, his plan to jump out of airplanes in the Army was quickly reoriented to becoming an engineer which he grew to thoroughly enjoy.

Outside of his career, Ron enjoyed engaging in his favorite past times and hobbies once he had returned to the states and settled in Alaska in 2015. He loved to indulge in the fantasy realms of Star Wars, The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. If you didn't find Ron with his nose in a novel, he could be found seeking a sweet treat like a York peppermint patty, however, he wouldn’t have been opposed to any cookie or sliced cake offering.

Ron is survived by sisters Kim Bradford and Connie (Ben) Boatwright, his sons Sean Bradford of Honolulu, Hawaii and Ian Broadnax of Zurich, Switzerland, grandson Ryan Bradford of Washington, nieces Ciarra (Logan) Sturgis and Cheyanne Bradford, nephews Chris (Jenna) Bradford, TJ Bradford, Jacob Boatwright, Daniel Boatwright and Cole Gabbert. 

 He is preceded in death by brother Richard Bradford and parents Donald Bradford and Nancy Bradford.

Service and burial will be in Michigan at a later date. The family does not wish to receive flowers, but instead would like any contributions to go to the ALS Foundation in remembrance of Ron and his battle with ALS to honor his strength and to carry on his legacy of kindness. 

Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg Funeral Home of Libby, Montana. 

Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.