Ronny "Ron" Sharp

Ronny Virgil Sharp

Ron Sharp was born at Madigan Army Hospital at Fort Lewis, Washington on October 1,1957 to Virgil V. Sharp and Agnes Louise Sharp. Sadly, his father passed away one week before Ron's birth. He was raised by a loving single mother with input (whether solicited or not) from his maternal grandfather who lived with them. Being 7 years older, his sister, Paula, also helped her mother with Ron.

Ron attended Olympia Public Schools from kindergarten through high school. He graduated from Olympia High School in 1975, where he was an active member of the marching band, student council, Chairman of the Dance Committee, and was the senior class Vice-President. He was well liked in high school and maintained active friendships with many of these classmates throughout his entire life. In fact, Ron spearheaded, and was a key player, in almost every high school reunion for the class of '75.

Ron attended the University of Washington where he majored in political science and history. He joined the Theta Chi fraternity his sophomore year where he was introduced to many more lifelong friends. He held every position at Theta Chi and eventually was elected as the UW Intra Fraternity Council (IFC) President.

After college, Ron worked in various positions at the Washington State Legislature and then became a campaign manager for Republican candidates for both the Washington State House and Senate races. After this time in the political scene, Ron acquired his real estate license and worked for Windermere Realty in Olympia. These new skills soon transferred to working as a right-of-way agent for the State of Washington, Universal Field Services, and eventually working for Snohomish County. He enjoyed his work and the camaraderie with his co-workers.

From the time Ron was a freshman in college, he always supported Husky Football! He was an avid fan who knew the team and current statistics as well as anyone. He was a season ticket holder and Tyee Club member for many years and regularly tailgated at Husky stadium with a group of close friends.

Music was another passion of Ron's. He was influenced by all the great rock-n-roll bands of the 60's and 70's, but none more so than The Beatles!

In his 50's he decided to quit his day job and for a couple of years pursued a dream of making music that had stirred within him for a long time. He wrote songs, including lyrics, music and arrangements. He then purchased a 16-track music studio recorder and proceeded to produce and engineer these songs, playing every instrument (rhythm guitar, bass guitar, lead guitar, drums and vocals). Ron had the courage, fortitude, and talent to realize his dream! He hoped to become known for his music, but the reality was perhaps even more meaningful: he got to do what he truly loved! He wrote and sang songs that meant something to him, putting a piece of his own story into every one.

Many friends have described Ron as a very kind and easy-going person who always left a great impression on people. He was a philosopher of life who could talk and discuss anything from ancient history to modern politics, from the latest happenings in the British royal family, to the latest developments in the theories of the origins of the universe. Ronny could draw inspiration from sources as varied as the Bible or Shakespeare, to Einstein or Seinfeld!

Ronny's life was a reminder that a dream is not measured only by how far it takes you or how many people know your name. Sometimes the dream is simply having the courage to follow your heart and do what makes you happy. He lived life on his own terms, chasing his dreams, and making the most of the moments he was given. He left an impression that will not soon be forgotten by those fortunate to have known him. His music, his spirit, and the memories he created will remain with those who crossed paths with him.

Ron passed away peacefully on September 5, 2026, at Providence Regional Medical Center Everett ICU with his sister, Paula by his side. He had suffered several cardiac arrests and strokes over 3 days. Ron was fortunate to have his boyhood friends, Steve Rees, Dewey Ward, Brian Nichols and Randy Bergstrom spend time with him at the hospital before he passed. Special thanks go to his Snohomish County Public Works colleagues who have been so supportive during a difficult time.

Ron leaves behind his sisters, Paula Hughart, Linda Newman (Joe Bob) niece, Wendy Hart, nephew, Jonathan Newman, and special cousins, Ian Carter and John Hnilica.

Those wishing to honor Ron's memory may make a contribution to the University of Washington Foundation in his name