Ronald Paul Cordiner went home to the Lord on Feb 10, 2024. He was born on January 29, 1956 to Amelia and Roger Cordiner in Laramie, Wyoming. Ron was born and raised in Laramie and worked for the UPRR for 40 years.
When Ron received the cancer diagnosis he bravely moved through his journey with courage, kindness and dignity. We will forever remember him for his captivating wide smile, his sparkling eyes and his exceptional sense of humor. Ron lived just as valiantly as he passed, embracing life with relentless zest and embarking on countless adventures. The time has come for him to reunite with the loved ones who have gone before him, guided by the tender embrace of his loving Lord.
No matter how many facts we share about Ron, they cannot capture the impact he had on this world and his loved ones, the significance he held, and the void he leaves behind. We are all graced with the gift of life, but eventually, we must return it. Ron possessed an extraordinarily gentle heart, radiating support, love, and humility. He was always there for others, displaying unwavering loyalty and generosity. His contributions not only extended to his fellow humans but also to the four-legged creatures he loved and who adored him in return.
Ron found joy in fishing, spending all the time he could as “Captain Ron” aboard his vessel. Over the years, he triumphed over impressive catches at Flaming Gorge and many other fishing holes. He also delighted in sharing his stories of hunting, camping, trapping, his early rodeo days, snowmobiling, motorcycling, car building and repair. There weren’t many things that he couldn’t build or fix.
His coworkers shared their memories of working with him by saying that he was the best switchman they have ever worked with. He was always 2 steps ahead and knew how to get a difficult job done. He always showed up with his big smile and kept his coworkers doubled over in laughter with his banter and sense of humor. While many conductors were leery of switching big heavy railcars, Ron threw them around like flapjacks. He always moved like he was 10 years younger than he was, running at full speed in time of need. They were grateful to have worked alongside him because he was one of the last of the best old timers. Ron was trained by World War II veterans who he was very proud to have known and worked with. He will always be remembered for his saying “I love ya brother,”
In his physical absence, we must let his spirit encourage us to live immeasurable lives, sculpted by love, compassion, and audacious adventure. And always with a big heartwarming smile.
Ron is survived by his wife Becky Wills, daughter Angie Grimes, grandson Mason Kelly, sister Connie Murphy, brother Bob Cowley (Barb), stepdaughter Shannon Grisham, many cousins, nephews, nieces and mountains of friends.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 17, 2024, at Greenhill Cemetery followed by a Celebration of Life starting at 12:30 p.m. at the Laramie Elks Club.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Laramie.
Sorry for your loss. He was fun to work with. Norman Hilgenberg
It was an honor to know, and learn from one of the best. Ron had a great passion for fishing. He was always smiling, and had a zest for life. Rest in peace.
Our beloved brother. You will be so missed and will always be in our hearts. May you rest in peace until we are together again. ♥️
One of the best friends I ever had. We had many a good time over the years. We had fun on the job and off as well. Our pheasant hunts with Warren (Warrnie ) were some of the best times of my life. RIP BROTHER.
What a great guy. This is a hard one for friends to take. He was always going to come to Fl. and go Tarpon fishing with me. I always looked forward to going to Laramie to work with him. May he Rest In Peace
Becky sorry for your loss. Ron and I started together in 1975. Yes he was the best. RIP
Dear Becky & all of Ron's family and friends, I'm so saddened to learn of Ron's passing, yet thankful he's no longer suffering the brutal physical pain. I was not fortunate enough to have spent a lot of time with Ron, however the times I was with him and Becky it was always an extra special joy. One of my all-time favorite fishing trips was in the beautiful Snowy Range, with Capt. Ron at the helm of his boat. Great day, excellent company, blessed memory. Hearing all the stories and being fortunate to share in a few memories with him, showed me a man with so many wonderful qualities! One who will be missed in this world but will show us all how good the fishing in heaven is someday. I was fortunate to have met such a wonderful soul and be a friend. I'm so very sorry for your loss yet know the memories will live on treasured.