Ronald Bownds

Ronald Thomas Bownds, 64, passed away peacefully while surrounded by his loving family, on Monday, September 26, 2016 at University Hospital in San Antonio, Texas. Ron was born to John and Colleen Bownds on July 24, 1952 in Uvalde, Texas. He lived and attended school in Utopia, Texas, where he graduated from high school in 1970. He attended college at Sul Ross State University and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Geology and a minor in Criminal Justice. He joined the Army National Guard and served in the Military Police. In 1973, Ron became a policeman for the Kerrville Police Department and then later became a Bandera County Deputy Sheriff. Along with his family, Ron also owned the Mercantile Store in Utopia. In the late 1970's, he worked in the oil and gas industry as a geologist. Ron's greatest achievement was founding Utopia Bottled Water in 1982, which he owned and operated for 12 years before retiring. However, Ron enjoyed staying busy, and at the time of his death he and his wife owned and operated Utopia River Retreat. Ron was an active Mason achieving the 32nd Degree. He also loved fishing, hunting, and being at home in Utopia on the ranch. Ron is survived by wife Judy, daughter Cindy Brightman and son-in-law Chad, daughter Vicki Goodenow and son-in-law Brennen, son Brandon Bownds and his girlfriend Kim Kindred, five grandchildren; Bella, Bode, Gates, Warner, and Piper. He was preceded in death by his father John, brother Kirk, and mother Colleen. Graveside services will be held at Jones Cemetery in Utopia, Texas on Sunday, October 2, 2016 at 12:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Ron's honor to the Utopia EMS, P.O. Box 393, Utopia, Texas 78884.

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