Carleton, Ron (1950-2003)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2003 May 2 p. 26

Birth date: 1950 Jan 19

text of obituary:

RON CARLETON

Ron Carleton died Jan. 5. He was born Jan. 19, 1950 in Gravelbourg, Sask. to Ralph and Mary Carleton. His father was a United Church pastor; the family moved to several communities in southern Saskatchewan. When Ron was 4, his parents took over the family farm in Ravenscrag, Sask., moving to Cremona, Alta. in 1961. Ron participated in sports and music. He attended Millar College of the Bible in Pambrun, Sask., playing piano for musical groups . He pJayed for the Messengers Quartet, touring North America and Europe. He met Gladys Magnusson in Carman, Man. when he was billeted in their home during a tour. They married in 1974. They joined Global Outreach and served on the Voice of the Gospel radio broadcast in Aix-en-Provence, France 1978 - 1984. During the last 2 years in France, Ron's health began to fail, and they returned to Canada. He was diagnosed with MS. He earned a BA in French and MA in French Literature at University of Calgary but because of his illness was not able to teach. The family moved to Abbotsford, B.C. in 1992; Gladys taught in Langley School District. Ron began writing poetry, songs and articles. He maintained his sense of humour. He put his faith in Jesus at age 10 and was baptized in his late teens at Maple Ridge (B.C) Baptist Church. He maintained a basic faith and found grace to live each day courageously. He is mourned by Gladys; daughters Nicole, Emmy and Coralie; 2 brothers; 1 sister. The funeral was January l0 in Northview Community Church, Abbotsford, with Ike Bergen and Frank Martens ministering.