Ronald “Ron” Irving Pupke, a cherished educator, coach, and valued member of his community, passed away on May 16, 2025, at the age of 101 in Cottage Grove, Oregon. Born to Herman F. and Stella F. (Tormoehlen) Pupke on January 19, 1924, in Portland, Oregon, Ron’s life was marked by dedication, service, and a passion for sports and education.
Ron married the love of his life, Gladeus “Sim” Simmons, on June 5, 1948. Together, they enjoyed over 68 years of marriage filled with love, teamwork, and mutual respect.
An alumnus of the University of Southern California and the University of Oregon, Ron received his Bachelor’s Degree in 1947 and a Master’s Degree in 1953 in education and physical education. His collegiate years were highlighted by his contributions on the basketball court, playing for the University of Oregon and the University of Southern California, as well as the Quantico, Virginia Marine team.
Ron’s service to his country was exemplified through his tenure in the Marine Corps, where he served three years during World War II and a year during the Korean War, ultimately reaching the rank of Captain. In 1952, as head track coach at the San Diego Recruit Depot, he led his team to the USMC track championship. His dedication to coaching continued as he taught and coached from 1947 to 1951 in Springfield and 1953 to 1984 in Cottage Grove. As an athletic coordinator, he made a lasting impact on countless young lives, fostering a love for sports and teamwork.
Away from work, Ron embraced his zest for life through various interests. A multi-talented athlete, he played on local adult basketball and softball teams well into his 40s. His long-time interests were collecting coins since 1936 and playing golf since 1939. He was a long-time member of the First Presbyterian Church and the Elks Club in Cottage Grove.
Ron’s spirit shone through as he spent his retirement attending Dixieland, ragtime, and Oktoberfest on the West Coast. He and Sim went on Dixieland cruises to Hawaii and the Caribbean, also traveling with friends in RVs, made a 13,000-mile trip across Canada, and took trips to Louisiana and other SE states. In 2010, they moved to Middlefield Estates. Before that, in 1963, the Pupkes lived on 32 acres south of Cottage Grove. On their land, they raised sheep and hay. Their children had horses while growing up.
Ron enjoyed seeing and doing business with his previous students. He appreciated being invited to his students’ class reunions and events. His enthusiasm for life’s adventures and his dedication to youth as a teacher and coach remain his enduring legacy. Ron will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, former students, and colleagues.
Ron is survived by his children, Shauna, Renn, Vonn, Camee, sister Audrey, and one granddaughter, Mariah. He is preceded in death by his wife, Sim, and daughter Starly.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel and Crematorium.
