Ronald Charles Elison, 79, of Idaho Falls, Idaho passed away Friday, April 8, 2016, at his home following a courageous battle with cancer.

Ron was born July 1, 1936, in St. Anthony, Idaho, the son of Doyle Andrew Elison and Lenore Annie Elliott Elison. He and his twin brother, Donald F. Elison grew up with the regular routines of life, such as primary and secondary education. Ron spent one year at Idaho State University in Pocatello, ID. The remainder of Ron's education came by way of self-study and trial and error. He was truly a Renaissance man.

From 1959-1961, the U.S. Army called upon Ron to serve our country through faithful service as a radar specialist.

1961 was an eventful year in Ron's life. Being discharged from active duty, he started civilian life by marrying Marie Hanson on Aug. 25, 1961. This was also the year he started his lifelong passion and career as a furniture refinisher. Having worked at places in town, he started Ron's Refinishing in 1977 in El Toro, California. After returning to Idaho Falls in 1984, he resumed his business from a shop built at his residence.

Ron's passion for wood and its natural beauty led him into crafts and building useful items for those he loved. Music has been a large part of his life including learning to play the organ and keyboard from ear.

While going through chemotherapy, he would knit hats and scarves for those in the throes of treatment.

His life with Marie included travels for business. A portion of their life was lived in California where they raised their two Idaho born daughters.

Camping, trailering and off road adventures followed him into his last years. He served his family and church faithfully as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

He is survived by the following: his wife, Marie Elison; daughters: Pamela (Don) Miller and Paula (Tim) Reichenbach; grandchildren: Shawn and Shineese Miller, and Briahna and Caleb Reichenbach; and his twin brother, Donald F. Elison.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents, Doyle and Lenore Elison and a grandson, Travis Miller.

The family would like to thank all the health care providers from Teton Cancer Institute and Hands of Hope Home Health and Hospice for their extraordinary care of Ron.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 13th, 2016 at the Iona 8th LDS Ward Chapel, 4459 John Adams Parkway. A visitation on Tuesday, April 12th with family and friends will be from 6-8:00 p.m. at Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First St., Idaho Falls and at the church one hour prior to the services. Burial will be in the Iona Cemetery.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.coltrinmortuary.com