Ronald J. McNatt

Ronald J. McNatt, 81, passed away Feb. 27, 2015 in Fountain Hills after an extended illness.

Educated in Indiana, Ron was a graduate of Anderson High School in 1951 and Purdue University in 1955. Later he received a master’s degree in education from Ball State University, and he taught in the Anderson, Ind., school system until he retired.

He was also a proud veteran of the U.S. Army and maintained a continuing interest in reading and learning about military history. His military service inspired him to become an avid gun collector.

Ron and his wife, Angeline Sprague McNatt, moved to Fountain Hills in 1996 after living in Indiana most of their lives. They loved their new home and climate and enjoyed their retirement lifestyle. Their loyal poodle, Louie, enhanced their lives in Arizona.

Collecting model trains was a lifelong passion for Ron, and he enthusiastically built an elaborate train layout that he displayed in their Anderson home. Often a highlight of his travels throughout the United States involved seeing a train in motion.

Ron will be warmly remembered for his infectious laughter when something struck his funny bone, his superb skill of telling jokes, and his in-depth knowledge of many subjects, especially history.

He was preceded in death by his father, Justice McNatt; mother and stepfather, Martha and Mahlon Horine; aunts, Mary Shearer and Ruth Louiso Hosier; uncle, Byron Louiso; cousin, Dale Louiso; and extended family, Gene and Charlotte White.

Survivors include his loving wife of nearly 60 years, Angeline; extended family, Fred and Mary Sprague, John and Connie Magee, and several nieces and a nephew.

Cremation has taken place, and no services will be held. Condolences may be posted online at www.theheraldbulletin.com/obituaries.