Born and raised in Tillsonburg, Ontario, Ron graduated from Annandale High and later from Mohawk College, Hamilton in Business Administration. He worked 34 years for 3M Canada and a spin off company Imation Canada holding various positions related to sales, marketing and project management in Toronto, Calgary and London. While introducing the 3M Adhesive Transfer Tape and Applicator Gun to picture framers, artists, photographers and art supply dealers across Canada, Ron began to develop an interest in art. In 1984, encouraged by fellow 3Mer, artist Ken MacFarlane, CSPWC and Brampton artist Jack Reid, CSPWC, he enrolled in evening drawing and painting courses at Sheridan College, Brampton and Oakville campuses. Ron relocated to London Ontario in 1988.