Ronald Elroy Van Roekel, a longtime resident of the North Plains community, passed away surrounded by loved ones on May 27, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on October 6, 1938, in Tillamook, Oregon, Ron was the eldest of three children born to Clarence and Minnie Van Roekel. He was raised in Tillamook and graduated from Tillamook High School in 1956, later attending Pacific University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education in 1965. Ron proudly served his country in the U.S. Army Reserves, enlisting in 1956 and completing his service with an honorable discharge in 1957. It was during his youth that Ron met his future wife, Debbie Schranz. Having been classmates since grade school, they reconnected while Debbie was attending Pacific University. They married shortly after on June 9, 1961, at St. John’s Church in Tillamook—a union that would have celebrated 65 years this June. Throughout their nearly 65 years together, Debbie often remarked that they never once had an argument, a testament to their love and mutual respect for one another. After living in Lebanon and Rainier, the couple moved to Hillsboro in 1963 and eventually settled on their farm in North Plains in 1976, where they raised their two sons, Troy and Cameron. Ron was a dedicated educator who truly loved teaching in the small town of Banks. He shared a wonderful bond with the students from that area, always finding a way to make his history lessons or shop demonstrations feel personal and practical. A natural teacher—patient, kind, and encouraging—he made learning meaningful. His students lovingly called him “VR,” a nickname that became a badge of honor and a symbol of the special connection he fostered with his students. Having taught multiple generations of local families before his 1992 retirement, Ron remains a beloved figure whose influence continues to be felt throughout the community. An avid outdoorsman and gun collector, Ron found his greatest peace in the wilds of Alaska. With Debbie’s encouragement, he became a seasoned traveler who journeyed across the globe—from Europe and Australia to Africa, Russia, and around Cape Horn to the South Pole. Whether he was helping friends refurbish cabins in the "Last Frontier" or embarking on a new international excursion, he embraced every experience. Closer to home, Ron was an avid reader of historical works and a master of all trades. In his shop, he could fix anything from farm equipment to engines, and in his youth, he was a highly accomplished trap shooter with a keen eye and steady hand. Above all, Ron was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Ron was a loyal friend to many, and family was the center of his world; he delighted in watching the next generations grow. From sporting events to school achievements and cattle shows, he was always present with support and encouragement. Grandpa was the heart of his family, whether he was whipping up pancakes before school, making a morning run for donuts and hot chocolate, or taking his grandchildren to explore national parks, visitor centers, and museums to share his love for history and the land. Ron was a man of quiet strength, selfless service, and endless kindness who never had an unkind word for anyone. Go rest high on that mountain, "VR." Your absence has left a profound void, and you will be deeply missed by all whose lives you touched. Ron is survived by his wife, Debbie; his sons, Troy and Laurie Van Roekel of North Plains, and Cameron and Lisa Van Roekel of Silver Spring, MD; his siblings, Clarice Anderson and Lloyd and Sherry Van Roekel; five grandchildren, Nathan, Drew, Logan, Collin, and Caleb; and seven great-grandchildren. A celebration of life will be held on June 20, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Old Scotch Church, with a reception to follow at the Scotch Church Road Vineyard. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to the Banks High School Career and Technical Education Program, 13050 NW Main St., Banks, OR 97106.