Ronald Lee Counts

Ronald Lee Counts, 87, of Trinidad, Colorado, and formerly a long-time resident of Livingston, Montana, passed away on September 3, 2026.

Born in Oceana, West Virginia, Ronald was the son of Willie Kester Counts and Lakie Cook. He was the eldest of four children. His family relocated to Montana when Ron was a young child. He grew up in the beautiful Paradise Valley and graduated from Livingston Park High School with the Class of 1956.

In the fall of 1956, Ronald proudly entered the United States Air Force. During the height of the Cold War, he was stationed in France as a vital part of NATO operations. His military journey was cut short in June 1958, when he was honorably called home from service due to the sudden passing of his father to care for the family.

In January 1971, Ronald married Joette Petrich, lovingly entering her two daughters' lives and embracing them as his own. After many years in Livingston, MT, Ron and Joette moved to Trinidad, CO.

Ronald was a man of incredible work ethic and dedication. His career spanned over 50 years as an over-the-road truck driver, racking up millions of miles as he crisscrossed the United States. He drove until he was 83. He was proud to tell you he never had a single driving infraction or moving violation over his entire career. When he was not behind the wheel, his true passion was horses, a love that stayed with him throughout his life. He carried the spirit of the mountains, a deep love for the beauty of Paradise Valley, Big Sky Country of Montana, and his pride in serving his country.

He is survived by his wife off 55 years, Joette; his daughter from a previous marriage, Vicki Ann McLean-Baird of WA; his stepdaughter, Colette McGee (Tom) Merritt of Livingston, MT; his sister, Joyce Counts-Cavett of Billings, MT; his brother, Danny Counts of Miles City, MT and a host of extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Lakie; his brother, Kester and his stepdaughter, Shawna McGee.

A Remembrance Open House for longtime family and friends of Ron Counts will be held in his hometown of Livingston, MT, on Friday, October 9th, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The gathering will take place at the home of his daughter, Colette Merritt, located at 35 Kindsfather Dr., Livingston, MT. A formal Military send-off will be presented by the local American Legion Honor Guard at 2:00. All who knew Ron are welcome to attend, visit with the family, and share stories and condolences.

Earlier that day, per his request, his immediate family members will gather privately to scatter his ashes on the hillside overlooking Old Chico Cemetery, where Dad will rest alongside his family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to any Veterans association of your choice, honoring his dedicated military service.

1. Happy Trails Dad!
2. ~May you have a safe ride until you reach those heavenly green pastures~