Forgive us for taking so long to write this; we are as shocked as you after learning of Ron’s passing a few weeks back. It’s been a tough thing to accept and we are still trying to get our minds around it. Ron Nelson was an amazing guy to work with, so smart, so caring. He came to work at MacPherson’s nearly 29 years ago on the great recommendation of his mom, Darlene, who was Frank’s secretary at the time. 
Ron started his career at MacPherson’s sweeping the warehouse floor and quickly showed his uncanny ability to remember products and item numbers. This lead him into our customer service department where Ron quickly mastered the arcane world of art materials, and more importantly, learned the names, voices and habits of the many customers who called. Ron never took helping our customers lightly. Each of you who spoke to him were special to him. What a big heart Ron had! 
He was loved by his MacPherson’s work mates, present and past, and known to our customers as a kind soul and a great listener with a photographic memory. The art materials community won’t forget you, Ron, you will be missed by so many.
If you’d like to sign Ron’s guest book on the San Francisco Chronicle’s web site you will find it here.
