Obituary of Ronald Sharrah

     Ronald E. Sharrah, known to many as Big Ron or Steph’s Gentle Giant, was born May 15, 1973, and passed away suddenly of a heart attack on Thursday, March 28 at home. As one can imagine, our hearts are broken.

     Ron was born in Fortuna, California.  He spent the early part of his life there.  He learned to surf in San Diego and often went to class covered in sand.  He finished high school in Oregon and attended the University of Portland on a basketball scholarship until he sustained a career-ending injury.  He later married Melissa Christiansen, they moved to Boise and had two girls, Grace, and Olivia. They later divorced. In Ron’s professional life, he excelled in parts management.

     Ron married Stephanie Potter on September 25, 2021, and they honeymooned in Ireland and Spain.  His family was his whole world and his light.  Ron and Steph filled their life together with family adventures, amazing food, gathering with family and friends, and travel.  He was always up for his favorite beer at Prost, dressing up for Halloween, a soak in a hot spring, playing a game of cards, or a chat about sports, especially his beloved Buffalo Bills. He was a willing guinea pig for Stephanie’s wild ideas and shenanigans. He even had a few ideas of his own.  He was a proud father, a cherished husband, the best grandpa, a loving brother and son, and a good friend.

     Words were powerful to Ron.  He expressed his thoughts and feelings by writing poetry and with detailed Facebook posts.   He appreciated Step’s culinary talent.  He often posted pictures of meals describing the dish with the proper jargon, ingredients, and preparation technique.  Ron had a profound appreciation for music, except country of course. Ron was not hard to miss.  His presence filled the room.  We are thankful for the gentle kind man he was, and his 50 years with us were a gift.  Everyone who has had the pleasure of knowing him will keep a piece of him in their heart.

     He is survived by his wife, Stephanie; daughters, Grace and Oliva;  bonus children, Jordan and Johanna; Ashley, Bryce, and Megan; grandchildren, Nehyome and Everett; parents, Ronald Sharrah and Linda Freeman; siblings: Amy, Allison, Chirstopher, Sarah and David; bonus parents, Dave and Bonnie Dale; the Dale family; and numerous step siblings, cousins, nieces and nephews. 

     We will celebrate the life he lived, the love he shared, and the difference he made in our lives.  Please join us for an open house: at Stephanie and Ron’s home in Boise.

Saturday, April 13 from 3-6pm

2354 S Georgetown Way, Boise, Idaho

Additionally, we invite you to share your personal memories of Ron. These memories are invaluable to the family and may be shared during the celebration of life.