Ronald "Ron" Short

Ronald Nelson Short, born on July 1, 1939, in Moline, IL, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, hard work, and community service. Ron was the beloved son of Paul Edward Short and Louise Nelson Short. Growing up on the banks of the Rock River, Ron developed a passion for music, playing the piano, tuba, and sousaphone. An Eagle Scout recipient, Ron's scouting experiences shaped his character and commitment to service. He attended Augustana College and Long Beach State College and earned master's degrees from the University of Oklahoma and Pennsylvania State University. In 1959, he married Carolyn Aims, with whom he raised three children: Kim, Janelle, and Scott. Despite facing significant challenges, including Carolyn's battle with Hodgkin's Disease, Ron remained a steadfast and loving husband and father. Ron had an illustrious career as a city and county planner, taking on executive leadership roles in numerous locations across the United States. His work in planning positions in cities such as Garden Grove, CA; Colorado Springs, CO; Los Alamos, NM; Lawrence, KS; State College, PA; Tampa, FL; Phoenix, AZ; Chino Hills, CA; Albuquerque, NM; Rio Rancho, NM; Cave Creek, AZ; and Glendale, AZ showcased his expertise and dedication to urban development and community planning. He was recognized as a Fellow of the American Institute of Certified Planners, the highest honor in his field, a testament to his professional achievements. After Carolyn's passing, Ron married Jane Metz in 1980. Together, they faced life's challenges with resilience and a commitment to each other and their family. Ron continued his professional work while also engaging in numerous volunteer activities. He served as President of the Glendale Arizona Historical Society and was deeply involved in the Manistee Ranch Community Association and the Citizens Utility Advisory Commission. Ron served as the President of the Manistee Ranch Community Association (HOA) and continued as the President for twenty years. In his later years, Ron faced health challenges but remained active and engaged with his community. He found joy in simple pleasures like daily lunches out and attending musical productions at the Arizona Broadway Theater with Jane. His resilience and positive outlook on life were an inspiration to all who knew him. Ron is survived by his wife, Jane; his children, Kim, Janelle, and Scott; his five grandchildren; and his four great-grandchildren. His legacy of dedication to family, community, and professional excellence will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at Historic Manistee Ranch on Friday, June 15, from 9 AM to 11 AM, at 5127 W Northern Ave, Glendale. The Glendale Arizona Historical Society kindly requests that attendees RSVP by emailing gahs73@gmail.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Glendale Arizona Historical Society. A burial service will be held at Greenview Memorial Gardens in East Moline, IL, on Tuesday, May 28, at 2 PM.

Online condolences may be expressed on his Tribute Wall at wendtfuneralhome.com.