Ronald Greg Lakey, a man who loved his family, his friends and a good laugh, died Sept. 11 at his home in McKinleyville. His wife of 52 years, Renee and son Bubba were at his side. Ron was 74.

Born July 2, 1952, in Hazen, Ark., Ron and his parents Doris and Pierce Lakey Jr. soon moved to California as Pierce’s overseas Navy service ended and he rejoined his young and growing family. They eventually made their home in Humboldt County, where the Lakey family roots already ran deep.

Ron and his three siblings all attended local schools from kindergarten on, with Ron graduating McKinleyville High in 1970. 

After high school, Ron headed for Alaska, a fortuitous decision that not only provided a stunning backdrop for his career, but led to his meeting the woman of his dreams, Renee.  

Ron and Renee were so proud of their three sons: Garrett the eldest and twins Damian and Joshua, aka Bubba.

After health problems led to an end of Ron being able to live in Alaska’s climate, the young family came to live in Humboldt, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in wildlife management in 1985 from Humboldt State University

Ron and Renee and the three boys quickly became community stalwarts, with friends and youngsters constantly visiting the Lakeys. Their open door almost never swung shut during those years.

Ron, an expert poker player, also could be spotted in more recent years as he faced down challengers at local casinos. Ron had victories in two national poker tournaments as Circus Circus’ Five-Card Stud Champion two years in a row.  He was also featured in Poker Tournament Magazine twice.

In addition to his wife and his sons, Ron is survived by his sister Evelyn Pat Lakey and brother David Lakey, along with David’s wife Angela. He also is survived by his four grandchildren: Makenzi, Perrin, Dorian and Micah, and his three daughter-in laws whom he just considered daughters, Amber, Kortni and Mandala, and numerous nieces and nephews,

Ron is predeceased by his parents and younger sister, Linda Lakey. 

At his request, no services are planned. Ron Lakey will rest beside his mother and sister in the Blue Lake Cemetery in Blue Lake. 

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Ron Lakey’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.