Ronald Patrick McKinley, 81, of Wyola, MT passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 25, 2013 at his home.

Ron was born August 14, 1931 in Arco, ID to Patrick and Nell McKinley. When he was young he and his family moved to Sheridan, WY. He graduated from Sheridan High School and later joined the Air Force.

After leaving the service, Ron married Lynda Wood, his first wife in 1954. They had one son together, Mark, and later divorced.

Ron worked as an ace auto and aircraft mechanic and drove trucks across the country for many years.

He moved to Wyola, MT in the 90's, with his second wife Jan McKinley, where they built an airstrip and airplane hanger on a small ranch. He loved to fly his Kit Fox airplane which he built himself, and to fix and inspect aircraft for other pilots from all over. Ron had many skills and interests and people admired him for it . He was a good man.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife, Jan McKinley; his brother, Ridgley McKinley; 3 sons, Mark McKinley, David Wood, and James Wood; a daughter, Christine Mercer, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He will be dearly missed by All.

There will be no Services for Ron.

Online condolences may be written at www.kanefuneral.com.

Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

SheridanMedia.com - April 30, 2013.