1936-2025
Ronald (Ron) Royer passed away on Oct. 1, 2025, in Salisbury, North Carolina, at the age of 89. Born on June 18, 1936, in Panora, Ron was the son of Laurence and Carmen Royer.
Ron grew up in Panora, where he often worked alongside his father at Royer Oil Company. He graduated from Panora High School in 1954 and went on to attend Iowa State University before joining the Army and serving as a medic, stationed in Germany for two years. Following his military service, he returned to Iowa and completed his education at the University of Iowa.
Ron began his professional career at Rockwell International in California. In 1963, he married Betty Harrel, becoming stepfather to her three children — Belinda, Albert and Carol. In 1966, they welcomed a daughter, Daphne.
In 1978, Ron and his family returned to Iowa, where he served as general manager at Scranton Manufacturing and made their home in Jefferson. In 1985, he moved back to California, and later, in 2007, relocated to North Carolina to be closer to his daughter, Daphne, and her family.
In 2010, Ron married Kay Goins, and the couple settled in Spruce Pine, North Carolina. Ron became an active member of the community, volunteering with Kiwanis and numerous town festivals and events. In 2022, Ron and Kay moved to Salisbury, North Carolina, to be near both their families.
Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Kay (Goins) Royer; his daughter, Daphne Royer Humphlett; son-in-law, Jay Humphlett; and grandchildren, Will and Lauren. He is also survived by his sisters, Marlene (Royer) Lytle and her husband Jack, and Pam (Royer) Burmeister. Ron was deeply grateful to have Kay’s children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren as part of his extended family.
Ron will be remembered for his quiet strength, his commitment to family and community, and his generous heart.