Ronald D. “Gunny” Pelkey GYSGT U.S.M.C. (RET), proud husband of Mary Betty Harper Pelkey (Deceased), passed away on Thursday, March 9, 2017 at his home with his caregiver Carol at his side. Ronald was born in Island Falls, Maine on January 8, 1929 the son of James G. & Delvina Pelkey (Deceased). He entered the United States Marine Corps upon graduation from Island Falls High School in 1946. After proudly serving his country for over twenty three years, Ron retired from the USMC in 1969.

Ronald resided in VA Beach, VA from 1969 – 1986 and was employed by Belo Supermarkets. Returning to Maine in 1986 he met & married his beloved Betty in 1987 and the couple made their home in Phippsburg until 2002 when they moved to Bath.

Ron was a much decorated marine having served in Korea 1950 – 1951 and Vietnam in 1967 – 1968. His many awards consisted of Navy & Marine Corps medal with combat V, for Valor, Purple Heart (2 awards), Presidential Unit Citation with 2 stars, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal with 4 stars, Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal, WWII victory Medal, National Defense Ribbon, Korean Service with 6 stars, Vietnam Service, Vietnam Campaign, The Public of Korea Was Service, Cold Was Commendation, Armed Forces Retired Medal, Expert with High Power rifle, Sharp Shooter with 45 Cal Pistol. Ron participated with the 1st Marine Division landing at Inchon, Seoul, Chosin Reservoir and Spring Offensive 1951.

Ron also received the Navy & Man Corps Medal for leading a convoy of troops across a swollen stream and through a mine field to reenforce front lines.

He participated in many operations in Vietnam, including TET Offensive, Jan 1968 in Hoe City. In Oct 68 he led his company (Delta 1/1) into the Hai Lang National Forest to rescue Charlie Co which had been ambushed by great odds of NVA and Viet Cong.

Ron is survived by his nephew and wife Gregory & Clarice Pelkey of Kensington, CT and their children.

If you wish to make a donation in Ron’s name, they may be made to the Salvation Army, 25 Congress Ave, Bath, Maine 04530 or visit www.salvationarmyusa.org or Disabled American Vets. www.dav.org/donate

A graveside service with Military Honors will be held on Monday, May 8, 2017 at 1:00pm at the New Maine Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Augusta, Maine.

To share your thoughts and condolences with the family, please visit www.desmondfuneralhomes.com.