Ronald Theodore Niklasson

Ronald Theodore Niklasson of Lithia Springs, Georgia, succumbed to advanced stages of cancer at the age of 74 on October 5, 2010. He died peacefully at home, surrounded by the love of his family. Born a first generation American to Swedish parents, Ivar Theodore and Gerda Niklasson, on October 5, 1936 in New York City, Ronald Theodore Niklasson lived a life of service to his country, his community, and to God. After graduating from high school, Ron, often called Nick by friends and family, felt compelled to serve in the armed forces. He received his commission and became a Naval Officer on 13 Dec 1956. Ron went on to earn his wings and the distinguished title of Naval Aviator before being assigned to Patrol Squadron 49 (VP-49). Stationed on Bermuda, he commanded the crew of his P5M Marlin during missions in search of Russian submarines off the eastern seaboard. He was honorably discharged in 1959 and ultimately promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Ron’s leadership and dedication to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States naval service. Upon leaving the Navy, his lifelong love of aviation was expressed in a 30-year career as an Airspace Specialist with the Federal Aviation Administration. Nick was a devout Christian, serving God and his community in the Episcopal and Anglican churches. Ronald Niklasson was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by Nancy J. Niklasson, his wife of 53 years and his three sons and their families: David G. Niklasson, also known as Rev. Monk-Deacon Theodore of Ava, Missouri; Ronald J. and Beverly J. Niklasson of Calhoun, Georgia; and, Robert A. and Laura E. Niklasson of Temple, Georgia. He was the Niklasson patriarch to five grandchildren: Katherine N. Fisher and her husband Jonathan of Canton, Georgia; Petty Officer Second Class Theodore J. Niklasson of Honolulu, Hawaii; Veronica E. Niklasson, A. Blake Niklasson, and Gabriel A. Niklasson, all of Temple, Georgia; and, he was the proud great-grandfather to Jordan Rose Fisher of Canton, Georgia. Ronald Niklasson was a man of honor who always gave generously to his family and friends. He loved to read, to travel and to explore the world. He was an avid amateur photographer, often behind the camera at family gatherings and on the many trips and cruises of the lengthy retirement he shared with his wife. Funeral Services will be held on Friday, October 8, 2010 at 11:00 AM at First United Methodist Church on Hospital Drive in Douglasville, Georgia. Internment will follow at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia at 2:00 PM. The family will receive friends at Jones-Wynn Funeral Home, Douglas Chapel, Thursday, October 7, 2010 from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Mr. Ronald Theodore Niklasson to the American Cancer Society. Messages of condolence to the family may be sent from www.jones-wynn.com. Jones-Wynn Funeral Home, Inc., Cremation Services and Memorial Gardens in charge of arrangements. 770-942-2311