Ronald James "Ron" Coolidge, born on July 8, 1950, in Plattsburgh, New York, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona. He was 74 years old. Ron was the beloved son of Morse Henry Coolidge and Rosie Helen (McDonald) Coolidge of Jay N.Y., both of whom predeceased him. He grew up alongside his siblings Donald, Katherine, Nina, John, Morris, and Lawrence. Of his siblings, only Lawrence(Gale) survives him. On July 25, 1970, Ron married Patricia Marie Shelley, beginning a lifelong partnership spanning over 5 decades filled with love and adventure. Together they raised three sons: Shawn Michael (deceased), Collin Bryan (deceased), and Cory James of Saranac Lake, New York. Ron cherished his role as a grandfather to Jarred, Makensee, Benjamin, Alex, and Savanah and took immense pride in their lives. He also leaves 22 nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart. Ron’s passion for woodworking shaped his career. From crafting a stereo cabinet in shop class to founding and running his own construction company in Lake Placid, New York, he turned his love for working with his hands into a successful livelihood. Later in life, Ron and Patricia sought warmer weather and moved to Phoenix, Arizona—a move they fondly referred to as their "big adventure." There, Ron worked for others to spend more time with family before eventually starting another business. He retired in 2017. Despite facing significant health challenges with remarkable resilience, over Ron’s determination led him to participate in a groundbreaking clinical trial for an experimental heart valve replacement. As the 125th recipient worldwide of this innovative procedure, he gained seven more precious years of life- a legacy of hope for others as the valve is now widely used globally. An avid outdoorsman throughout his life, Ron enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking. In Arizona, he gave up hunting but embraced hiking and camping with renewed enthusiasm. His love, humor, and quick wit endeared him to all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him- including his cats Halley, Whiskey, and Biscuit. Ron's wish was to be cremated and set free in the woods where he grew up. May his memory bring comfort to all who loved him.