Ronald T. Anderson

Ronald T. Anderson passed away in Ellensburg on Monday, December 23, 2024. Born December 31, 1930, Ron was the firstborn child of Clarence and Hazel Anderson, early Kittitas County residents.

Growing up in Ellensburg, Ron worked with his father, raising crops and livestock and delivering hay and feed to customers in Western Washington from an early age. He graduated from Ellensburg High School in 1949. In 1950, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving in supply at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada.

Returning to Ellensburg after his service commitment, Ron and his father formed the forerunner of today's Anderson Hay and Grain, and he became a leader in expanding markets for local hay products worldwide. An early inquiry in 1970 from a San Francisco shipping trader and Ron's willingness to consider stepping out led to the opening of Asian markets for hay going, first to Japan, then Korea, and beyond. That initial action led to today's market for Washington hay products and products from all Western U.S. States.

Ron served as president of the National Hay Association in 1978, Founder and Chair of the International Market Development Committee for many years, and on the Washington State Trade Commission, leading several agricultural trade missions to Asia. In 1985, Ron was awarded the National Hay Association Hay Maker of the Year award. He worked with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to introduce hay products to emerging countries throughout Asia and was on the Washington State International Trade Fair Board of Trustees.

Ron's efforts led to Anderson Hay & Grain earning numerous awards over many years, including the Globe Award, the Washington State Governors Trader of the Year Award, the Oregon State Governors International Business Achievement Award, and the Oregon Exporter of the Year.

In later years, Ron was involved in numerous boards and leadership roles at Indian Ridge Country Club in Palm Desert, California.

Ron is survived by his wife of 60 years, Robin; children Steve (Laurie) Anderson, Lori (Jim Ragsdale) Anderson, Mark (Carrie) Anderson, and Brian Anderson; 10 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; and his sister, Linda Dozier. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Richard and Gerald; and his nephew, Curtis Anderson.

Ron’s memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025 at Mercer Creek Church in Ellensburg, Washington.

Memorial contributions are suggested to a charity of your choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Johnston & Williams of Ellensburg. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.johnston-williams.com