Linda, I have never met Ron, except for seeing him at Nationals in the Chariot classes and through this board. It seems as though he was quite a wonderful man, and since he has completed his last go-around in this world we will all be the poorer for it. I am glad that he was able to attend the convention one last time. The friends we make through our connection with horses become family. Sometimes we quarrel, sometimes we hug, laugh, cry together. The glue that keeps us together is our love of the horse. I am sure that being at the convention was like a family reunion for Ron.
I know that Ron was beloved to all who have grown to know him over the years. Now that his earthly body has crossed over, he will live on in spirit and memory. I know when the chariot classes come up at Nationals there will be a bright determined spirit out there with his favorite horses, dashing around with the wind rushing past them, egging on their fellow competitors to give their best.
Godspeed, Ron. I am sure when the gates of heaven opened, you were going through them full tilt.