MR. RONALD O. SALLENBACH of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Mrs. Mary Sallenbach (Olajos) of 55 years, passed away peacefully after a lengthy illness on Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at the age of 78 years.

Ron was born in Cardston, AB on September 28, 1930. He attended school in Raymond and Lethbridge (LCI) and apprenticed at the Technical School in Calgary in sheet metal. He worked at Huttons Automotive for a total of 27 years in the capacity of salesman and manager. He was a custodian at Southminster United Church for 4 years prior to retirement in 1990. He built his homes in Moon River Estates and Magrath and enjoyed 20 years living in the country. Ron was a perfectionist, whether it was building, market gardening, or repairing his vehicles. He was always looking for new adventures in travelling with their RV and made many friends in Kelowna, Lake McGregor and Arizona. Ron enjoyed the challenge of x-country skiing, downhill and water skiing. He loved to dance, golf, boat, fish, and socialize with friends and family. Ron was extremely proud of his children and grandchildren and was looking forward to seeing more of their activities (soccer, hockey, dancing, swimming, etc.). There were many special occasions that the families were together and they were a great highlight of his life. Ron was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion and Bridge 55 (Army & Navy).

Besides his loving wife Mary, Ron is survived by his 4 daughters Brenda (Randall) Masuda and their children Natalie and Tamiko, Judy (Marty) McFadzen and their children Alexandra and Matt, Barbara (Kevin) Novakowski, and Rhonda (Bill) Richardson and their children Jesse and Sarah all of Calgary; 2 sons Darrell (Martine) Sallenbach and his children Eden, Chad and Morgan, and their mother Suzane Chaddock of Parksville and Barry (Therese) Sallenbach of Houston; 3 sisters Nedra Dragland, Evelyn (John) Clementson, and Linda (Manley) Bourne; 3 brothers Allen (Rosemary) Sallenbach, Robert (Kathleen) Sallenbach, and Wesley (Patsy) Sallenbach; brother-in-law John (Betty) Olajos; numerous special nieces, nephews and their families, especially Kevin and Linda Dragland and family and Pam and Gregg Cancilla and family, with whom he shared a special bond; as well as many friends that will miss him dearly.

Ron was predeceased by his parents Oscar and Mabel Sallenbach; brother Kenneth Sallenbach; brothers-in-law William Warren, Ted Dragland, Joe Olajos and Steve Olajos; as well as his father and mother-in-law Steve and Mary Olajos.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:30pm on Thursday, May 7, 2009 at the McKILLOP UNITED CHURCH, 2329 - 15 Ave South, Lethbridge, with Reverend Cathy Coates officiating.

Those who wish, memorial donations may be made to The Canadian Cancer Society, 317 - 10th Street South, Lethbridge, AB T1J 9Z9.