Ron was born in Gowen, Oklahoma but grew up in Krebs in the home built by his mother and father, Wilma and 'Frog' Floyd Nelms.   He graduated high school and joined the Air Force the very next day. His time in the Air Force afforded him opportunities to experience many different cultures around the world and share these experiences with his family, which grew to include his wife Dorothy and two children, Ronda and Floyd.

Ron loved reading, board games, puzzles, ceramics, exploring, and gardening.   These were just a small sampling of things he enjoyed and shared with his family.

Ron retired from the Air Force as a Master Sergeant in Rancho Cordova, California, where he resided until his return back to Oklahoma to help his beloved mom, Wilma, in her later years.

Ron is survived by his daughters, Ronda and Nancy, two grandchildren Maverick and Jewlea, and his cat, Maxine.   He is preceded in death by his parents Wilma and 'Frog' Floyd Nelms, son Floyd Earl Pate and ex wife Dorothy.