Ronald Setzer

Ronald Aaron Setzer, of Fort Collins, Colorado—beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend—left this earth on April 3, 2024. He is survived by his wife, Emily Setzer; sons Elliott and Jude Setzer; brothers Ray Setzer (Chi Chi), Robert Setzer Sr. (Valerie), and Richard Setzer (Ellen); many nieces and nephews; and countless friends. The fourth of four sons, Ron was born July 26, 1962, to Raymond A. and Margaret (Stefanisko) Setzer, in New Brunswick, New Jersey. In 1986, he married Carol Miller; together, they followed the call West and lived in Colorado and Montana. He received a BA in communication from Rutgers University and an MFA in media arts from the University of Montana. He married Emily Mellinger in 2009; Elliott was born in 2013, and Jude in 2014. They called many places home from Montana to Oregon to Washington, but Ft. Collins, Colorado was home, and it called him back to settle in 2019. Ron had a long career with New Belgium Brewing, where colleagues remember him for his dedication, generous mentorship, and camaraderie. An accomplished musician, Ron played bass in a number of bands over the years, including Cheater Jones, Lazy Bones, Big Buckle, Magnificent Bastards, Burning River Trio, and Wrangler Jim & His Personal Demons. He was known for his excellent musicianship, vast musical knowledge, and skill in arrangement. A true audiophile, Ron was a sound-shaping expert in recording, performance, and film. Ron will be remembered for many things besides his music. He called his mother every day; had a fabulous sense of humor, a big and unforgettable laugh, strong opinions, and a keen intelligence; made a terrific Bolognese sauce; knew everything about beer; played the bass with his eyes closed; loved the Beatles; and was a dear friend to so many people. Most of all, though, Ron would want to be remembered for his deep love for and devotion to his family—Emily, Elliott, and Jude. A memorial celebration will be held on June 29th at 4PM in Ft. Collins, CO. For more information, please follow the event page link: https://www.facebook.com/events/2785295618295292/?ref=newsfeed