Campus News

Obituary: Ronald Lee Waln

Ronald Lee Waln
Ronald Lee Waln, a retired faculty member in Hugh Hodgson School of Music, died July 20 at the age of 82.

Born June 25, 1931, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Waln grew up in Oberlin, Ohio. Music was in his life at a very early age from his musical father. Waln was introduced to the flute in third grade.

He joined the music faculty at UGA in 1965. During his time here, he helped the music school mature and grow into a nationally recognized program. Waln continued his teaching career at UGA until retirement in 2000.

Waln enjoyed being part of the UGA Woodwind Quintet appearing on both U.S. and international stages. Also a member of the UGA Baroque Ensemble, Waln enjoyed the opportunities to perform in Augusta as a guest member of the Augusta Symphony and for opera performances.

A service for Waln was held Aug. 3 at Athens First United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that gifts be made to the UGA Hodgson School of Music Scholarship Fund or the music ministry at Athens First United Methodist Church.