Actor Ron Ely, who is best known for being the star of the 1960s Tarzan TV series, has died at the age of 86.
His final years were shrouded in tragedy, and his death comes five years after his second wife, Valerie Lundeen Ely, was killed in tragic circumstances at the couple’s home in California.
The former flight attendant was fatally stabbed by their son, Cameron Ely, in the family’s home in Santa Barbara, at the age of 62.
Cameron was fatally shot at the scene by authorities with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office.
Ron, who retired from acting in 2001 (apart from a brief appearance in TV movie Expecting Amish in 2014), and his wife Valerie were married for 35 years before her death.
The couple had three children together, Kirsten, Kaitland, and Cameron.
Who was Ron Ely’s wife Valerie Lundeen?
Ron Ely’s wife was Valerie Lundeen, a devoted mother who once worked as a flight attendant and won Miss Airline International, a beauty pageant for flight attendants, in 1980.
A year later, Valerie was crowned Miss Florida, USA in a beauty pageant in 1981, and she would later compete for the title of Miss USA.
Her future husband, Ron, also had associations with the world of pageants, having hosted the Miss America competition for two years in a row in 1980 and 1981.
Ron and Valerie got married in 1984 and had three children. The couple became grandparents for the first time in 2018 when their daughter Kaitland gave birth to her first child, a little boy.
Valerie was 62 years old when she was killed.
Related Posts
Eating tomatoes: an ally for your health and your kitchen
Far from being a mere side dish, tomatoes act like a daily, edible shield for your body. Their vitamin C strengthens immunity and supports firm, youthful skin,…
Tragic Resolution in the Search for Melodee Buzzard
After weeks of uncertainty, officials have confirmed a devastating outcome in the search for nine-year-old Melodee Buzzard. Authorities announced in early December that her remains were found…
When One Word Goes Viral: How a Brief Slip at AmericaFest Sparked a Bigger Conversation
A brief, unscripted moment can sometimes take on a life of its own, especially when it happens under bright stage lights. That’s what unfolded during a recent…
How Barry Manilow Built a Lasting Life Beyond the Spotlight
For more than fifty years, Barry Manilow has shown that it’s possible to enjoy extraordinary success while keeping your personal life grounded and protected. Instead of allowing…
One Word Heard Around the World: How Pope Leo XIV’s Brief Reply Sparked Global Reflection
In a setting known for careful language and centuries-old tradition, a brief exchange unexpectedly captured global attention. Only days into his papacy, Pope Leo XIV faced a…
How to Prepare for a Potential Christmas Eve Storm on the West Coast
As families finalize holiday plans and travelers hit the roads and airports, weather forecasters are cautioning that Christmas Eve may bring serious disruptions across much of the…