Ronald Lee “Ronnie” Finlen, age 60 years, a resident of Cassity, departed this life on June 5, 2011, as a result of injuries sustained in an auto accident. He was born March 7, 1951 in Elkins, a son of late Elmer and Ethel Finlen Louk. On August 22, 1970 he was united in marriage to Pam Tenney Finlen who survives at Cassity. He is survived by five children, Ronda Smith and husband Max of Dailey, Pam “Muffy” Henline and husband Chris of Mill Creek, Toby Finlen and wife Jessi of Cassity, Timmy Finlen of Mill Creek, Tommy Finlen and companion Florence of Mill Creek. He has eleven grandchildren: Deven Smith and companion Holly, April, Hank and Bobbie “BJ” Smith and companion Cody Hoover, Talina Henline, Brandon, Autumn Finlen, Chelsey, Destiny, Jerrica and Haley. Also surviving are three great-grandchildren Alina and Kierra Smith and Caleyona Hoover. One Brother, Sonny Finlen and wife Barb of Huttonsville, two Sisters Kathy Lanham and husband Buck of Mill Creek and Terri Butcher and husband Mike of Daily and his faithful dog, Chief. Also preceding him in death was a grandson Austin Ray Finlen.
Ronnie was employed by Zirkle Logging as a skidder operator. He was a loving husband, father, brother and grandfather. He loved planting a garden and enjoyed playing horseshoes with his friends and family along with deer hunting and mechanic work. Ronnie also liked to listen to gospel music. He also worked for Gamble Coal Company from 1976 to 1984 and several other logging companies. He was a member of Markley Memorial Church and he will be sadly missed by all.
Friends may call from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM Thursday, June 9, 2011 at the Tomblyn Funeral Home in Elkins. On Friday, June 10th, he will be moved to the Markley Memorial Church where a funeral service will be held at 3:00 PM. Rev. Tristan Tenney, Rev. David Bickel and Max Smith will officiate. Interment will follow in the Zirkle Cemetery near Cassity. The Tomblyn Funeral Home of Elkins is in charge of the arrangements for Ronald Lee “Ronnie” Finlen.
