Ronald Mark Pitcher

Ronald Pitcher

Ronald “Ron” Pitcher, age 87, passed away on March 20, 2026, in California, with his daughter Deborah by his side.

He was born on August 1, 1938, in Bellflower, California.

Ron was preceded in death by his son, Glenn Pitcher (2009); his former wife, Patricia (McCullough) Pitcher (2025); his son-in-law, Michael DePonte (2026); and his siblings, Don Pitcher, Nina Pitcher, and Lily Shrader.

He is survived by his children: Mark Pitcher and his wife Janet Pitcher, Deborah Moore and her husband Jeffrey Moore, and Cheryl DePonte; his daughter-in-law, Melissa Pitcher; along with 9 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him deep pride and joy throughout his life. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Donna Pitcher, and extended family, including nieces and nephews.

Ron served in the United States Air Force, where he earned his wings, and went on to a long and meaningful career as an aerospace engineer in space and defense, contributing to major U.S. space programs including Mercury, Gemini, Apollo, and the Space Shuttle. He carried a lifelong passion for science, space exploration, and the stars, often encouraging others to look upward and understand the world beyond. In his later years, he shared that passion as a docent at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, where he genuinely enjoyed connecting with others and sharing what he loved.

He was known for his brilliant and analytical mind, along with his precision and craftsmanship, and for the way he approached everything with thought, care, and curiosity. He instilled in his children a love of art, craftsmanship, science, nature, animals, and exploration, including traveling and experiencing new places. His curiosity and sharp mind remained with him to the very end, often engaging in thoughtful conversations and continuing to explore new ideas.

Ron had a natural talent for art, creating detailed and precise work, including watercolor, reflecting both his creativity and his attention to detail. He also had a deep appreciation for culture and experience, with a curiosity that drew him to museums, events, and new ideas throughout his life, and he was well known for the stories he shared with others, whether with lifelong friends or someone he had just met. He often spoke of a book he hoped to write titled “Good Guys Wear Black Hats.”

Ron was a man of deep faith and an active member of his church community, where he was well liked and remained connected to many. He formed close friendships throughout his life, built on shared experiences, mutual respect, and a genuine appreciation for others.

Over the last year of his life, Ron faced significant health challenges. He was supported with great dedication by his family, especially Deborah and Jeffrey, who cared for him with love, patience, and commitment. Jeffrey was like a son to him.

He was a teacher at heart, always sharing what he knew in a way that encouraged others to learn, think, and grow. He was also known for his quiet sense of humor.

He will be remembered for his intellect and curiosity, and for the deep love, admiration, and pride he held for his family, often expressed more than they realized, and for the many lives he influenced.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 23, 2026, at 1:00 PM at St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church in Poway, California, with a reception to follow.

A full military honors ceremony will be held at Miramar National Cemetery at a later date.