Ronald Covey
Ron passed away unexpectedly on May 31, 2022 at the age of 81. Ron was born to George Edward and Della Pauline Covey on January 12, 1941 in Duncan, Oklahoma. His family moved from Oklahoma in 1954 settling in Highland, CA where they began attending the Highland Church of Christ. Ron joined the Air Force after graduating from Pacific High School in 1959. Ron was stationed in Okinawa and England, before completing his service in 1964 at Norton Air Force Base. It was during his time in Okinawa that Ron’s father was hit and killed by a drunk driver. Ron met his future bride, Carolyn Gilstrap at the Highland Church of Christ and they married in the church on December 4, 1964 and remained lifelong members throughout their 57-year marriage. Ron taught bible classes, led song service and wrote editorials for over 60 years. Ron joined the San Bernardino Police Department in 1966 and worked motor unit patrol, burglary, ID, homicide and intelligence. He had always wanted to become a Detective as a child and did so within four years of becoming a sworn officer. He retired in 1991 and enjoyed 31 years of retirement with his wife. Ron was an avid outdoorsman, traveling all over the United States on hunting and ATV rides with many of his closest friends. He loved visiting the majestic mountains of Utah and the time he got to spend there with his friends. He was heavily engaged in veteran activities, most notably with his involvement in the Run for the Wall motorcycle memorial ride. Captain Ron “Gunner” drove a Chase truck on the Central Route from Ontario, CA to Washington D.C. helping riders who had become stranded or were simply too fatigued to ride any longer. Ron absolutely loved being a part of that group and made some of his closest friends during the long cross-country treks. Ron was a professional photographer, antique dealer, had his private and commercial pilot’s license, was an expert on the history of San Bernardino, and was the best husband, father and Papa there could ever be. Ron is survived by his wife, Carolyn; son, Doug Covey (Carianne); daughter, Gayle Covey-Morin (Pat); grandchildren Kayla Haney, Wylie Covey and Taylor Haney. Sisters Reba Scott (Ken), and Barbara Earlene Hagerman (Jack), and brothers Carl Covey (Sandy) and Curtis Covey.
