Ronald Canto

June 7, 1944 - July 14, 2014

Ronald Lee Canto, 70, passed away peacefully in his home in Mapleton, Utah, on Monday, July 14, 2014, at 12:00 pm. Born in Kenilworth, Utah, on June 7, 1944, to Jack and Norma Canto. Ron grew up in Mapleton Utah, graduated from Springville High School in the early 1960’s, and then swiftly entered the Marine Corps. He bravely fought for his country in the Vietnam War from 1966-1968 in active duty combat, including in the DaNang River area where the United States deployed heavy use of Agent Orange. Ron received the Purple Heart along with four purple bars and a medal for expert marksmanship, as well as other military awards. He received an honorable discharge after sustaining severe injuries: Marine, 3rd Battalion, 9th Infantry, 5th Marines. Anyone who knew Ron knew that he was an outstanding businessman. He received his MBA, owned car dealerships, and was the President of Utah Valley Credit Union for over 27 years. Ron loved having his yard looking the best on the block; he also enjoyed trap shooting, pheasant hunting, golfing, playing tennis, traveling and other outdoor sports and activities. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Colleen Bascom; his mother and father; his beloved grandparents, Tony and Katie Canto; his brother, Jackie Canto; his niece, Heather Canto; his grandmother, Vera Graham; and, his brother-in-law Neldon Zobell, along with two great- grandsons, Gabrielle and Josiah. He is survived by his wife, Juline Canto, his sister Kathy Canto Zobell, his daughter Christina Canto Rawlings (Danny); grandchildren, Jordan (serving an LDS mission in Brazil), Noah and Max Rawlings, Niece Toy Canto and grand nephew Clancy Canto (Step-children)Tera Prestwich; Nicholle Slocum (Chad); Adam Prestwich (Lisa); Calvin Prestwich (Cathryn); 14 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren. A special thanks to Hospice of Utah; Dr. Gary Holland; nurses, Michael, Anthony, Leslie, Nicole and Keith, for their impeccable care of Ron. Funeral services will be held at the White Chapel on the corner Main and Maple in Mapleton, Utah, Saturday, July 19th, at 11:00 am. A graveside service will follow at the Springville Evergreen Cemetery. Please join the family for a life celebration and luncheon from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the White Chapel in Mapleton. There will not be a viewing. Funeral Directors: Utah Valley Mortuary.