Ronald James Barden

Ronald Barden was a father, mentor, analyst, entrepreneur, lifelong student, and world traveler with a deep curiosity for the world around him. A transcendental thinker with a logical mind, Ron was an avid reader. Guided by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, he pursued his studies with devotion throughout his life, ever seeking to broaden his scope of thought and refine his craft.

Born in Barre, Vermont, Mr. Barden showed an early fascination with numbers and served as class treasurer at Spaulding High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he saved diligently for his education and immersed himself in books on finance, accounting, and the stock market. He served in Okinawa, Japan, stationed at remote underground missile sites across the island, including the Mace B missile site at Kadena, which has since been converted into a Buddhist temple.

Following his service, he earned a finance degree with honors from the University of Arizona. He began his career in New York, starting as a field technician and, through grit and tenacity, rose to a top role in Finance working directly under the Program Director of his division at IBM.

Although Ron had a successful career at IBM, his true ambition was to become an entrepreneur. He taped his office key beneath his desk, got in his car, and traveled across the Sun Belt. His journey ended in St. George, Utah, where he set down new roots and eventually built a career in real estate with his partner and best friend, Denley Fowlke.

In his later years, Ron’s wanderlust continued to shape his life, leading him to divide his time between Bloomington, Utah, and journeys throughout Asia. He ultimately made his way to Udon Thani, Thailand, his second home, where he was surrounded by a circle of close friends.

He will be remembered for his sharp intellect, insatiable curiosity, and adventurous spirit, qualities that touched and inspired all who knew him.

Mr. Barden is survived by his sons, Zane DeLucia and James Barden, and his brother, Steve Barden.