Duncan - Ronald "Ron" James Crook, 76, of Duncan, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, in Oklahoma City. Born Jan. 7, 1949, to Lee and Lola Crook, Ron was a dedicated husband, father, papah and friend to all who knew him.

Ron met his future wife, Sharon Ridley, while attending Duncan High School where he graduated in 1967. The two married Aug. 14, 1971 and were married 54 years.

He attended Oklahoma State University where he graduated in 1974 with a degree in chemical engineering. After graduating, Ron began his career at Halliburton in Duncan, where he would work for nearly four decades as a global advisor in cement materials. He was a part of numerous patents for the inventions of various uses of cement in drilling. After retiring, he continued to work as a consultant.

Ron was an avid hunter, fisherman and golfer. For decades, he was a fixture on the fairways of Duncan Golf and Tennis Club, where he would routinely get in 18 or 36 holes before sundown.

He passed along his love of sports and the outdoors to his sons, Justin and Jeff, whom he adored. He loved spending time with his grandson, Davis, and taking his dachshund, Roxie, on rides in his golf cart. Ron also enjoyed adding to his collection of firearms and was rarely seen without a cigar. He spent many fall Saturdays with his family in Stillwater cheering on the Cowboys.

Ron is preceded in death by his two sons as well as his parents; brother Bill Crook; and brother-in-law Randy Carter.

He is survived by his wife Sharon; grandson Davis Crook; sisters-in-law: Karen Carter and Tonya Ridley; brother-in-law Tony Ridley; nephews: Chase Carter and Coleman Hickman; nieces: Melissa Ridley Taylor and Allyson Ridley Wright; and numerous golfing buddies, colleagues and friends.

He will be remembered for his tough exterior that concealed an extremely giving nature, as he was always willing to help a friend or community member in need.

A celebration of life for Ron will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements are being handled by Whitt Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Justin Crook Scholarship Fund at First Bank and Trust of Duncan. Online condolences may be made at www.whittfh.com.