Ronald Dean Carlton, 61 of Keokuk, IA died Friday, March 29, 2013 at his sister's home in Keokuk. He was born on April 25, 1951 in Keokuk, IA the son of Tressler and Shirley Potter Carlton. Ron had been employed as a chef while living in California and after moving back to Keokuk was as a cook at Chintz's in Keokuk. He most recently had been employed at Ft.Worth Barbeque in Keokuk where he was a treasured friend to many. He was a member of the VFW Post 3508 and Southside Boat Club in Keokuk. Ron enjoyed fishing, watching NASCAR and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals and Iowa Hawkeye fan. He enjoyed his visits with his best friend Mike Rooney. His grandchildren were his pride and joy and he loved spending time with them. He is survived by one son, Joshua Philip Carlton of Long Beach, CA, one daughter, Rachael Marie Boyer and her husband Ben of Escondido, CA, three grandchildren, Nathan, Jaden and Logan Boyer, three brothers, Daniel Carlton and his wife Kathy of Keokuk, Richard Carlton and his wife Debbie of Keokuk, and Randy Carlton and his wife Mona of Hamilton, IL, one sister, Tina Hamelton and her husband Rick of Keokuk, many nieces and nephews, and great nieces and great nephews He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, three brothers, Steve Carlton, Raymond Carlton and Thomas Carlton and one sister, Faith Carlton Shotts. Funeral services were held at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 4th, 3013 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Rev. Terry Lovell officiating. Memorials may be made to Lee County Hospice.