Coach Ron Kamaka (1963 - 2022)

Ron Kamaka Celebration of Life Image

03/07/22

(Walnut, CA) It is with deep regret and heavy hearts that the Mt. SAC Division of Kinesiology, Athletics and Dance announces the passing of Professor and Men’s Cross Country/Track & Field Head Coach, Ron Kamaka.  After a courageous two-month battle from complications of CoVID-19, Kamaka passed away on Sunday, March 6th.

“We will all truly miss Ron,” replied Mt. SAC Director of Athletics Joe Jennum.  “He was an incredible professor, coach and friend who demonstrated how much we should cherish each day.  Although he may have left us physically, his legacy and the lessons he has taught us will live on.”      

Kamaka joined the Mt. SAC Family in 2008, after serving as an Assistant and Associate Head Coach at Cal State Fullerton for 12 years.  After taking over as head coach in 2013, he led the Mounties to three California Community College State Championships in Men’s Track & Field (2015, 2016, 2018).  During this time, he was named South Coast Conference All-Sports Men’s Coach of the Year 3-times.  

A former community college high jump state champion while at Santa Rosa Junior College, Kamaka went on to jump at Arizona State University. 

After a bodysurfing accident in Hawaii left him a quadriplegic, he turned to teaching and coaching where he flourished.  A native Hawaiian, Kamaka used his wealth of knowledge, Hawaiian Heritage, life stories and love of life to inspire his students.    He lived every day to its fullest and with the help of his wonderful wife Lynda, never let his disability stop him in any way.  



Celebration of Life

Sunday, April 24th at 2:00 pm
Hilmer Lodge Stadium
Mt. San Antonio College
Walnut, California

Ron Kamaka was laid to rest on Sunday, March 13th, 2022 in an intimate and private grave side ceremony attended by members of his immediate family.

A public celebration of Ron’s life will be be held at Hilmer Lodge Stadium (Mt. SAC Campus), on Sunday, April 24th, 2022 at 2:00 pm.  Everyone is invited.

In keeping with Ron’s love of and appreciation for his friends, the family has requested that dress for this occasion be casual and comfortable with “Aloha wear” being highly encouraged.

The stadium will open at 1:30 pm.  There is no charge for parking in Lot F (across Temple Avenue) or in the Champions Parking Structure (handicapped parking).


RSVP / REMEMBRANCE / CONDOLENCE

To RSVP for the Celebration of Life or leave a Remembrance or Condolence for the family, please click on the link below:
https://www.mtsacathletics.com/specialevents/KamakaCelebration/rsvp

Directions/Parking Map for the "Celebration of Life" can be viewed by clicking the link below:
https://www.mtsacathletics.com/specialevents/KamakaCelebration/Ron_Kamaka_Celebration_of_Life.pdf


HONORING COACH KAMAKA

Mt. San Antonio College plans to permanently recognize Coach Kamaka's leadership and commitment to supporting Mt. SAC Student-Athletes. One way will be the installation of a plaque honoring Coach Kamaka, in Legacy Park (North end of the stadium), that tells his inspirational story. 

If you would like to make a donation in honor of Coach Kamaka, please visit the Mt. SAC Athletics Online Giving Page (full link below) and select "Coach Ron Kamaka Memorial Fund" in the drop-down list of gift designations.

https://mtsacfoundation.org/donation-pages/kinesiology-athletics-division


For additional information, please contact the Mt. SAC Athletic Special Events Office at specialevents@mtsac.edu or by phone at 909.274.4840.