Ronald “Ron” Prestwich, born on June 11, 1949, in Provo, Utah, passed away on May 29th, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. His unwavering determination and resilience throughout his illness serve as an inspiration to all who knew him.

Ron was the beloved son of Valeen Olsen Prestwich and Lowell Melvin Prestwich, both of Orem, Utah. He attended Orem High School, graduating in 1967, and furthered his education at Utah Technical College and Brigham Young University from 1968 to 1970. In February 1970, Ron married Gloria Erickson Prestwich, his high school sweetheart and the love of his life. Their enduring bond recently celebrated its 54th anniversary on February 2. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and shared adventures.

Known affectionately as “Ron the Radiator Man,” Ron operated an industrial and automotive radiator repair shop, Ahlander’s Radiator, in Provo, Utah, for an impressive 35 years. His expertise and dedication earned him the respect of the community and countless loyal customers who continued calling on him well into his retirement. Additionally, Ron contributed his analytical skills to TD Williamson Corporation in Salt Lake City, where he worked as a pipeline-integrity data analyst for nearly 15 years. His commitment to excellence extended beyond his professional life.

Family was at the heart of Ron’s world. He cherished his relationships with his two sisters, Janet and (Ron) Ostler, Karen Prestwich Wignall, and his brother, Mike and (Laurie) Prestwich. Ron’s legacy lives on through his six children: Teresa Prestwich, Lorrie and (Chris) Carlisle, Joseph and (Katie) Prestwich, Lisa and (Jason) Thomas, Eric and (Lynzie) Prestwich, and Nathan Prestwich. Ron’s love expanded to his fifteen grandchildren: Colby Carlisle, Kaylee Edison, Kourtney Meyers, Tanner Prestwich, Brayden Prestwich, Mylie Prestwich, Samantha Lanier, Landen Thomas, Skyler Thomas, Hailey Clift, Hannah Lewis, Brock Thomas, Elissa Maib, Addison Shabazz, and Addalyn Prestwich—to whom he lovingly provided a home with safety, nurturing, and educational support. He also had nine great-grandchildren: Ava Carlisle, Madison Champion, Myles Bates, Ivy Lewis, Graysen Lewis, Mya Thomas, Jep Thomas, and two more on the way.

Nature was Ron’s sanctuary. Whether camping, hiking, fishing, or riding ATVs, he felt most alive and at peace in the mountains. His brilliant mind was insatiable, constantly seeking knowledge. Ron devoured books and articles on science, technology, history, religion, philosophy, and politics, and he never stopped learning. A skilled craftsman, Ron’s hands brought ideas to life. He could design, construct, troubleshoot, and repair almost anything. Beyond his practical skills, Ron also revealed his artistry through paper and ink. As an inspired poet, he wove heartfelt verses into precious gifts and tender expressions of love. Those fortunate enough to read his poetry were often moved to tears. Ron’s skilled workmanship continues to resonate in the legacy of the many creations he left behind.

Ron also had a genuine passion for classic cars and hot rods and loved to share stories about being a Mopar street racer in his youth. As a skilled radiator repairman, he quietly contributed to countless car restorations. Ron frequented car shows throughout Utah, where he could always spot the vehicles for which he’d meticulously designed and built the cooling systems.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Valeen Olsen Prestwich and Lowell Melvin Prestwich. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Gloria Prestwich, their six children, fifteen grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. In celebrating Ron’s life, we honor his resilience, curiosity, and love for family. His memory will forever inspire us to embrace each day with ambition, energy, purpose, and passion.

“And, in the end
The love you take
is equal to the love you make.”

~Paul McCartney, The Beatles

Join us for a Celebration of Ron’s Life:

• Date: June 11, 2024
• Time: 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
• Location: Canyon View Park, 3300 E. Power House Rd, Spanish Fork, Utah 84660
• Schedule : First hour will be services, second hour a light dinner will be served.

https://www.spanishfork.org/departments/parkrec/parks/canyon_view.php