Ronald Harry Oliphant

Ron was born on July 14, 1934 in San Francisco and spent his life in California. He grew up in Hayward, graduating from Hayward High School in 1952. In 1954, he married the love of his life, Shirl. In 1955 they moved to Newark and then settled in Fremont where they spent more than 50 years surrounded by family and friends.

Ron proudly served in the U.S. Air Force, Air National Guard. After his service, he founded and operated Speedometer Electric Service in Hayward, a business he ran with dedication and pride until his retirement in 2004. He had a strong work ethic and believed that any job worth doing was worth doing well. Ron had a gift for fixing things and for helping people whether it was a project with his kids or grandkids or in the kitchen with Shirl. He loved teaching by doing and was always willing to get the job done.

Ron loved entertaining and celebrating with friends and family. He enjoyed the water, either spending time in his pool or out on his boat. He loved music, especially jazz and dancing with Shirl. Watching his grandchildren grow up and getting to know his great-grandchildren brought him endless joy.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife of 71 years, Shirl. His daughter and son-in-law, Cathy and Rob Avon and his son and daughter-in-law, Jeff and Karen Oliphant. He will be missed by his six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren: Brian (Krista) Avon, Oliver and Evelynn Avon; Jenny (Bernardo) Telles, Natalie and Leo Telles; Sean (Mandi) Oliphant, Mason, Maddox and Emry Oliphant; Becky (Harinder) Taunque; Renee (Luke) Jochem; and Beth Avon.

He leaves behind a family who will forever be proud to call him theirs.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Berge Pappas Smith Chapel of the Angels in Fremont, California, followed by burial at Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery in Hayward, California.