Ronald W. Gatland

Ronald Gatland, 79, of Weeki Wachee, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, 3 September 2015. He was born on 19 November, 1935 in London, England and is survived by his wife Joyce Gatland and two children and their spouses Keith and Cecilia Gatland and Tracy and John Lewis; Step-daughters Kimberly and spouse Joe Thorpe and Kristin Miller; grandchildren Elizabeth Lewis, Zachary Purvis, Johnathon Lewis, Chelsea Gatland, Brittany MacFarland, Brandon MacFarland, Joey Thorpe, Sarah Anderson and Alex Miller and great-grandchildren Charlotte Lewis, Logan Elsea, Brodey Anderson, Andon Miller, Kelby Cox and Bailey Cox. He is preceded in death by his parents Joe and Emily Gatland and step children Chip Booher and Kellie MacFarland. A graduate of London’s Brunel University, Ron served in the Royal Air Force from 1954-1959. Among some of Ron’s passions included English football, aviation, in particular the Spitfire and woodworking but his greatest passion was in helping others as he was always willing to lend a hand to help someone in need. He had a tremendous knowledge of history and in fact loved to quote famous speeches from his idol, Sir Winston Churchill. Having survived living in London during the blitz in the Second World War he loved to share his memories of what it was like to live during this period. In addition, he was an avid reader and traveled extensively throughout his life. He will be forever remembered by his family and friends for his kindhearted nature. A memorial service will be held at St Frances Cabrini in Spring Hill, FL on Thursday, 19 November, 2015 to celebrate his wonderful life on the 80th anniversary of his birth. A celebration of life will occur following the service.