Ronald Wayne Law

Ronald “Ron” Law passed away on July 13, 2023, at the age of 69 years, with his family by his side.  After an unexpected diagnosis of mesothelioma in December 2022, he faced his battle with a positive attitude and even a joke or three.  Throughout the journey, he possessed a dignity and strength that is rooted in the foundation of being a child of God.

A family man through and through, Ron’s love was evident.  While stationed in California, he met a blond beauty, Peggy.  They married after a whirlwind romance and spent the following 48 years building a life together.  He often mentioned her as being his rock and strength.  In 1981, he became a father with the birth of daughter Erin, and again in 1983, with daughter Ashlee. He derived a great sense of accomplishment from watching them grow into smart, independent women.  He was always quick to brag on his three girls to others.

Ron was a proud veteran of the US Navy, having served from 1971-1992.  He retired as Master Chief Engineman, a rank that few achieve. After retiring, he joined Military Sealift Command where he worked until December 2022, serving as a Damage Control Officer and Small Arms Instructor.  His ability to remember his students from years past and his talent as an instructor made him an unforgettable teacher.  The number of former students and colleagues who reached out upon learning of his illness was a testament to his leadership skills and the impact he had on others.

As an adult, he became a Civil War buff and enjoyed visiting many of the battlefields.  One of the few books he read multiple times was a Civil War book gifted to him by his mother after he made a passing comment of his interest in the era.  A jack of all trades, he could often be found knee deep in a project, whether it was yardwork with his wife, constructing Christmas reindeer, or building furniture with his daughter.  He dabbled in a variety of pastimes, ranging from golf to stained glass design.  However, for the most part he enjoyed tinkering in the garage, talking with the neighbors as they passed by, and drinking Dr. Pepper while relaxing with the family’s cavapoo, Heidi.

Ron is survived by the love of his life, Peggy, his proudest achievements- daughters Erin R. Law and Ashlee S. Law, and Erin’s husband Jason R. Dowell.  He is also survived by his siblings: Steven L. (Sue), Daniel A. (Gina), Patricia S. [Grasso] (Michael), and Douglas P. (Natasha), and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Larnie and Helen Law of Waldorf, MD, and a younger brother Gary Keith.

A viewing will be held at 10:00am on Friday, July 21^st, at Altmeyer Funeral Home in Chesapeake, VA with a funeral service starting at 11:00am. Family and friends are welcome to attend and stay for a gathering with refreshments immediately following the service.  A private internment at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk, VA will be held at a later date.

Ron will be remembered for his sense of humor, smile, quiet faith, and as a wonderful husband and proud father.