With joy, confidence and boldness Ron lived his life fully and vividly. He pursued his passions, goals and dreams every step of the way.  Diagnosed with lymphoma just a week prior to his passing, Ron spent his last week with son Brad and companion John by his side. He had recently returned from a three week vacation, which included a week in Stockton visiting family and friends and a 14 day cruise in Europe. Despite his weakened state evident upon his return to Stockton, he was clearly happy about his latest adventure. He was determined to make it home to Kona, HI, before once again visiting doctors.  We can’t help but think that his last month was just he wanted it to be; adventurous, beautiful and filled with loved ones.
   Ron was born in Murphys, CA. He enlisted in the Air Force his senior year at Stockton HS, graduating early to begin his service (’52-‘54 ).  After his service, he quickly recognized his talent and passion for art. He dedicated the rest of his life creating, teaching, supporting, and mentoring those in the art community.   Ron worked skillfully in a variety of mediums and is best known for an acrylic lacquer inlay technique that he developed.  His artwork is known, displayed and owned locally and far beyond, privately and publicly. Two years ago he moved to Kona, HI with his companion of 11 years, John Gaukel, where he continued creating island inspired art. He loved his new home and welcomed visits from friends and family. He continued creating up to his final weeks. The art he created is vivid, colorful and joyful.
   While attending COP, he met and married Regina, his wife for 47 years. He was loving and committed to her. They had one son Brad, who was their pride and joy.  They lived in Manteca from ’57 - ‘70. Ron began his teaching in Manteca Unified, first at Lincoln Elem., then Manteca HS and helped open the “new” East Union HS.  For three summers, Ron, Regina and Brad lived in Berkeley while Ron earned his MFA and taught Plein Art classes to make extra money.  In ‘69, Ron was hired by UOP where he spent the next 27 years teaching art.  For 11 of these years he was chairperson and committed himself to building, broadening and bringing innovation to the department.  He worked in conjunction with the School of Education, teaching “Art in Education” to many future K-8 teachers, so in turn, they could nurture a joy of art to their students.  He was awarded and won countless awards and recognitions throughout the years for both his artwork and his contributions to the art community.
   He was the middle of three sons of Lucille and Alfonso Pecchenino.  He is survived by son; Brad (Karen) and by grandsons; Dylan and Chad. He is preceded in death by his wife, Regina Theresa (’04) and both brothers, Alfonso (’14) and Alvin (’13).  He was a loving father and grandfather.
   A celebration of life is being planned during the fall.  A notice will follow. The family thanks you to make all memorial donations to organizations Ron favored: ALS, Hospice & UOP’s Art Department.

Stockton
Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Monday, August 17, 2015