Ronald F. “Ron” Enright (Feb. 8, 1945 – Oct. 16, 2011)

Ronald F. Enright, 66, of Brookings, Ore., passed away Oct. 16, 2011, quietly and happy, at his home.

Ron was born Feb. 8, 1945, in New York City, to Michael and Margaret (Curry) Enright.

His friends and family knew him as Ronnie. Ronnie grew up in Astoria, Queens, N.Y., until enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1963. Ron served until 1965 as a weapons specialist and instructor.

Following his service in the military, he headed west on a journey with only a motorcycle and a backpack. This journey led to marrying the girl of his dreams (despite her being a diehard Boston fan), and a fulfilling 30-year career with the California State Prison System.

Ron was a Correctional Officer at San Quentin State Prison in California when he married Marlene Gershman on Aug. 22, 1981, aboard a boat on the San Francisco Bay. They eventually moved to Brookings, in 1990, where they lived happily married. 

Ronnie retired as the warehouse manager of Pelican Bay State Prison, and enjoyed golf, photography, and videography; he had even started a small business with the latter. He was also an avid Yankees, 49ers and Oregon Ducks fan, and attended many games at Autzen Stadium with his son to support the University of Oregon, where he was able to celebrate his son’s college graduation in 2005.

Ron was loved by everyone he met, and was a friend to all. He was the most open-hearted, selfless, hardworking, and respected husband, father, brother and friend anyone could ask for.

Survivors include his wife Marlene of Brookings; son Eric Enright of Brookings; daughter Melanie Enright of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; grandson Ryan Giebler; brothers Terry and Vinny Enright of Florida.

Ron was preceded in death by his brother Dick.

Memorial contributions may be made to Coastal Home Health and Hospice, P.O. Box 493, Gold Beach, OR 97444.

At Ron’s request, no public ceremony will be held.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.redwoodmemorial.net.

— Submitted by Redwood Memorial Chapel