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Alumni Spotlight: Ron Lodge (1974-1976)

Ron Lodge

For Ron Lodge, Wenatchee Valley College wasn’t just a place to take classes. It was where he found lifelong friendships, a deep love for music, and even his future wife. Born and raised in Wenatchee, Ron always knew he wanted to stay close to home. His family owned a bicycle and locksmith business, and from an early age, he was helping at the shop. WVC gave him the chance to keep working, stay near family, and enjoy his mom’s home-cooked meals. Ron's initial education goal was to transfer to a four-year school, but life had other ideas.

Of all the classes he attended while at WVC, choir had the biggest impact. Under the guidance of director Dick Lapo, Ron found a true mentor. “He encouraged me to stick with music, even if it wasn’t my career,” Ron shared. “And I’m so glad he did, because music has been a part of my life ever since.”

Ron traveled with the WVC jazz choir to the Reno Jazz Festival, performing for world-class judges, but the real highlight was meeting fellow choir member Jeanne Musolf. “We fell in love on one of those Reno trips,” Ron said. “What happens in Reno stays in Reno, right? Well, not for us!” Years later, Dick Lapo even attended their wedding.

Though Ron didn’t pursue music professionally, it has always been central to his life. He's been a church musician for over 50 years, spending nearly three decades as an organist and accompanist in the Wenatchee Valley. “Music has brought me so much joy,” Ron said. “I love arranging and composing for the Columbia Chorale, where I’ve been a member for over 40 years.”

Ron’s professional path led him back to the family business and becoming the proprietor of Keyhole Security, a locksmith and electronic security company in Wenatchee. Jeanne worked alongside him for many years before shifting to a career as a full-time church music director. In the time since attending WVC, Ron's connection never faded. In 2009, he joined the WVC Foundation Board and has served twice as president. Of his time with the Foundation, Ron said “I love being able to give back to the college and the community in this way, helping students achieve their educational goals.”

Looking back, Ron says he wouldn’t trade his time at WVC for anything. The friendships, the experiences, and the opportunities he found there helped shape the life he built. “Take your time finding your path," he shared. "It's ok to not finish college if your circumstances change. It's ok to get an AA or a trade certificate and then go into the workforce. It's ok to start at WVC, then go on and get a Bachelors, Masters, and a Doctorate degree. It's ok to switch careers down the road and return to school for additional training. One size does not fit all, but WVC can accommodate all the above!"