Obituary of Ronald Twiddy Sr

Ronald Duane Twiddy, Sr., “Chief,” age 86, died on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Puyallup, WA after a sudden illness. He passed peacefully and was lovingly surrounded by family. Ron was born on December 14, 1938, on the River Road in Skokomish, WA to Jack Twiddy and Mabel Johns. His early years were spent at Minerva Beach on Hood Canal, then with family in La Conner, WA, before returning to Skokomish. Ron married Vivian Elaine Peterson, in Lilliwaup, WA, on October 13, 1959. They married young and began their family, raising them in Shelton. He was a hard worker and is remembered as a dedicated provider for his family. He enjoyed baseball immensely; from playing Men’s hardball at tribal tournaments and local softball leagues, to coaching Little League. He was an avid sports fan, particularly of the Mariners and Seahawks. He enjoyed snowmobiling, razor clam digging, and Friday afternoon coffee hour with his dear friends. His greatest joy came from spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Chief had a tremendous work ethic. He began planting trees at age 15 and became a skilled timber feller and operator in the logging industry. He was a lifelong commercial fisherman, and later a Geoduck diver. He was a self-made man who found great success and respect within his professions. Hunting was one of his greatest pastimes. From the time he was a young boy, to his last days, he enjoyed nothing more than going on a hunt. He hunted elk and deer all over the western United States and made numerous trips to Alaska and Canada on moose and bear hunts with friends. Chief was a revered member of the Skokomish Tribe, and leader among his tribal community. He will be remembered as a true and loyal friend, and a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Mabel, and his brother, Francis “Gus” Twiddy. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Vivian “Babe” Twiddy, daughter, Terri (Joby) Butler, and sons, Ron, Jr. (Tammy) Twiddy, and Greg (Shannon) Twiddy; grandchildren Robbi, Courtney, Amanda, Tiffany, Kyle, and Colton, and great-grandchildren Jack, Clara, and Emmett. A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, April 7, 2025, at the SkokomishCommunity Center, 19731 N Hwy 101, Skokomish, WA. Service will begin at 12:00 noon.