Ronald Clarence Kuether, 92, of Portland, Oregon, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026.

Born on June 1, 1934, in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, to Clarence and Eleanora Kuether, Ron learned the value of hard work at an early age. As a young man, he held several jobs and played accordion to earn extra money before attending the University of Wisconsin. After several years of college, he was drafted in the United States Army, proudly serving his country before returning to complete his degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Ron enjoyed a distinguished career in electrical power generation and distribution, eventually founding Kuether & Associates in St. Louis, Missouri. Throughout his career, he earned the respect of colleagues and clients for his technical expertise, integrity, and thoughtful leadership.

On September 24, 1955, Ron married Orlanda, the love of his life. Together they shared more than seventy years of marriage, raising three children and building a family centered on faith, love, and service.

Ron’s greatest joy was spending time with his family. He loved camping, backpacking, fishing, sailing, restoring classic cares, home brewing, woodworking, and woodcarving. His workshop was his favorite place- a place to build, repair, create, and teach. He was known for his warm smile, quick sense of humor, generous spirit, and willingness to help anyone in need.

A lifelong Lutheran, Ron faithfully served his church in many capacities, including on church boards and planning committees, and occasionally as a lay speaker. His faith was evident in the way he lived- with humility, kindness, honesty, and compassion.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Orlanda; his children, Kim, Craig, and Todd; six grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; and his sister, Elaine Wunsch.

Ron will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, proud veteran, accomplished engineer, faithful Christian and trusted friend. His legacy of integrity, hard work, generosity, and love will continue to live on through the many lives he touched.

A celebration of Ron’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness in Ron’s memory or memorial gifts to a charity or church of the donor’s choice.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” -2 Timothy 4:7