Ronald D. Blackwood 1940-2025

By Paso Robles Press · Thu Feb 12 2026

Ronald David Blackwood, 85 of Atascadero, CA, went home to be with the Lord, Jesus Christ, on Friday, December 26, 2025. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2024 and continued to live life to the fullest until his last breath in the comfort of his home and in the presence of family and friends.

Ron was born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Canada, on October 11, 1940, of descendants of Clan Douglass, Scotland. He later proved his loyalty to the United States by becoming an American citizen. Ron moved to Irvine, CA, where he attended Cal State Long Beach, achieved a Bachelor's Degree in Finance, and married the love of his life, Marilyn Blackwood, in 1962, and adopted a son and a daughter. 

Ron thrived in his community as an elder at Irvine Presbyterian Church, president of the Raquet Club Home Owners Association, coached Little League Baseball, and taught gun safety. His true passion was sparked in the late 80’s when he started training in the martial arts, where he became a respected teacher, mentor, and leader. His students affectionately refer to him as M.O.M., and his martial arts legacy is three active Ohoko Dojos. 

In September of 2015, Ron and Marilyn moved to Atascadero to be closer to family. Here, they found a church family at The Revival Center and became active participants at Friends of the Atascadero Lake. Ron enjoyed playing the guitar on his lakeview deck and serenaded all who walked by. Ron also found lasting friendships at the VFW Post 2814, where he is kindly addressed as “Cowboy” and where he expressed his patriotism by respectfully folding discarded flags. Ron also “backed the Blue”. For nearly 4 years, rain or shine, Monday – Friday, Ron stood at the flags in front of the Atascadero Police Department and raised his hands to Heaven, praying for the officers, clerks, mechanics, maintenance, custodial, and the Chief to never lose their joy for the job. Ron prayed that they are protected by God’s angels and that when they go home, their families are glad to see them. 

Ron is preceded in death by wife, Marilyn Ruby Salt Blackwood, and parents, Robert and Margaret Blackwood.

Ron is survived by his sister, Barbara Morgan (Bruce Morgan), son, Brian Blackwood (Bettina Curatolo), daughter, Stephanie Short (Ferlin Short), and 5 grandchildren. 

Celebration of Life will be February 22, 2026, 4-7 pm at Atascadero Lake Pavilion, 9315 Pismo Ave, Atascadero, CA 93422.

Memorial contributions may be made to: The Revival Center (AlphaBeth.org/giving) or VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) Post 2814 (by mail only), 9555 Morro Road, Atascadero, CA 93422.