Ron Odunaiya (5 Mar 1968 - 19 Jan 2020)

I will remember Ron as a smiling, fun person to work with who was utterly devoted to his family. He spoke often and proudly of his wife and children, especially the sporting achievements of his daughters and son (as a sportsman himself it gave him such delight) - but mainly his pleasure in Helen and him being parents to three good people.
As a colleague Ron was always professional, full of good advice and totally committed to doing his best for the people of Liverpool; carrying out his many roles to the best of his abilities and with boundless enthusiasm. As a friend, Ron was fun to be with, self-deprecating, always positive and great company.
Ron was a good man that helped so many people - many of whom he will never have met, such are the roles he played. He made a real difference and I am so very sad that not only have we lost such a guy but Helen has lost a devoted husband and his three children have lost such a supportive dad.
I am so sorry that distance means I cannot make Ron's funeral but my thoughts are with his family and friends.
Rest in Peace Ron.
James
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Ron I had the privelage of working with you at Knowsley many years ago. In life we are sometimes lucky enough to cross paths with individuals who help make us a better people. Ron you were that person for me and many others. Every day you demonstrated through your action and ineractions with others how to make the world in which we worked and lived a better place. RIP, Ron the world is worse off with your loss.❤

Thank you for the chance that you gave me and the chance that you took on me by giving me the opportunity to come and work for and with you. Your decision came at a time in my life when I really needed someone to see past the profile of the individual in front of him and to appreciate the experience and abilities that that person could bring to the Directorate.
You were that far-sighted someone that I needed and I hope that I have not let you down.
I will appreciate what you did for me and my family and I will be in your debt forever.
Thank you for being my boss, my adviser and my friend I for one amongst millions will be forever grateful.

I took comfort from these words at my Mum's funeral because I could hear her saying them to me on that frightful day, so I hope they give comfort to Helen and your three wonderful children and many others who will be saying goodbye for the final time to you tomorrow, so here they are:

When I come to the end of the road and the sun has set for me!
I want no rites in a gloom filled room, why cry for a soul set free?
Miss me a little, but not for long and not with your head bowed low!
Remember the love we once shared!
Miss me, but let me go!

God bless Ron, please accept my applause and that of my colleagues who knew you better than I!

rest in peace ron

I'm just packing my bags, so I will be there very soon to see you and say my goodbyes
Until we meet again, Rest In Peace my friend, my mentor
You are an inspiration to all...
Par