Ronda Jean Klaus

Ronda Jean Klaus, beloved wife of James Lee Klaus, passed away on July 23, 2025, at the age of 64 after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Ronda was born on June 17, 1961, in Vernal, Utah, to Ronnie and Connie Merkley. She shared a birthday with her great-grandfather Murray, a connection that always held a special place in her heart.

Ronda lived a life marked by dedication, compassion, and deep love for her family. She proudly completed the JATC program and became a Journeyman Electrician through the Electrical Union, working on commercial sites throughout Utah. She was known for her strong work ethic and professionalism in a field where she stood out.

Outside of work, Ronda found joy in giving. She devoted countless hours volunteering for Operation Christmas Child, a cause she held close to her heart. She also loved helping out at Calvary Chapel in Salt Lake City, Utah, where her giving spirit touched many.

Ronda loved the outdoors and cherished time spent camping with her family, and was a passionate NASCAR fan. She had a special place in her heart for her grandchildren and great-nieces and nephews, doting on them with endless love.

She is survived by her loving husband, James Lee Klaus; her parents, Ronnie and Connie Merkley; her brother Lloyd (JoBeth) Merkley and their children Chase and Hunter; her brother-in-law, John (Jodene) Perez and their children, Jake, Paige and Saelee, her son, Joshua Mathew Beutler (MaryEllen) and their children Aidan, Cora, John, and Ruby; her daughter, Crystal Bourquin and her children Dominic and Eliana; and her son, JJ (Maxine) Kleinberg and their children Jacobie, Chance, Ryanna, and Cali. Ronda was a proud grandmother of ten listed above and became a great-grandmother to Freya Rose, born on the very day of her passing. She was preceded in death by her sister, Jodene Perez.

Ronda’s warmth, generosity, and adventurous spirit will be missed deeply by all who knew her. Her legacy lives on in her family and in the many lives she touched.

Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at 11 am at the Blackburn Mortuary with a viewing held from 9:45 - 10:45 prior to service at the Mortuary. Burial will be in the Rock Point Cemetery.