Ronald La Porte

Sep 16, 1937 -

Jan 22, 2026

Ronald Owen La Porte passed away peacefully on Jan. 22, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on Sept. 16, 1937, in Lacey, Okla., to Lester and Jewell La Porte, Ronald is survived by his wife of 64 years, Catherine; children, Bryce and wife Valentina, and Todd; and grandchildren, Stephanie and husband Jon, Madeleine, and Wilson.

A lifelong baseball enthusiast, Ron was a pitcher during his student years in Enid, Okla., and continued in that role while serving in the U.S. Army for 24 months. He earned his B.A. from Phillips University, where he met Catherine, and later obtained his M.S. while teaching in Kansas. After a career in education in Colorado and Kansas, Ron joined the 3M Company in 1968, eventually relocating to Anchorage, Alaska, in 1984, before retiring in 1998. He was deeply committed to supporting youth, serving for many years as the Alaska American Legion Baseball Commissioner.

In 2010, Ron and his family moved to Bella Vista, Ark., where he continued to enjoy golf, hunting and baseball. His life was defined by a steadfast belief in faith, hope, love and mercy. He served as an Elder at First Christian Church in Anchorage and contributed to numerous committees at Highland Christian Church in Bella Vista.

The family expresses their deepest gratitude to the nurses and caregivers who provided Ron with compassionate care. A celebration of life will be on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 11 a.m., at Highland Christian Church. 1500 Forest Hills Boulevard in Bella Vista. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Highland Christian Church or to American Legion Baseball in Anchorage, www.alaskalegionbaseball.com.