United States Department of the Interior - National Park Service, U.S. Government
End of Watch Wednesday, March 9, 1960
Reflections for Park Ranger John C. Fonda
Rest in Peace, Ranger!
Lead Ranger Matt Lyons
National Park Service, Traffic Management - SEKI
June 23, 2024
Ranger Fonda, you left this world on the day I came into it. I hope that I filled the legacy you left well enough to make you proud of our profession. It is clearly some kizmet that the daughter you left is the same age as me, and she joined the US Marshal's Service and a person named Marshall was born the day you passed and became a police officer.
It has been 64 years since you were taken from us. American law enforcement has continued to thrive, learn and become safer due to the traditions and sacrifices you, your family, and many others have made for us. Thank you for your 8 years of law enforcement service.
Chief (Ret) Steven Marshall
Georges Mills, NH
March 10, 2024
Here it is again dad… March 9. You have been on my mind so incredibly much since mom passed away on September 22. I lost a knee one day and then mom the next. The fall resulting in a quad tear above the knee replacement two months later was big wake up call! The realization that my now 63 year old body isn’t quite as tough as I thought it was is quite humbling. I so wish that you and mom could accompany me on the trails here in Washington State as I rehabilitate! Everyone who knew you always said your absolute rule was that a hike or climb was never quicker than it’s slowest person! It is slow but steady.
You would love this little 22 month old black lab dad. Dagnye went with me to the hospital daily the last 10 days in August to see mom and even though she didn’t really recognize me much, Dagnye rested her head in Mom’s lap every visit and gave her kisses. I love you so much. Please give mom hugs and kisses for me.
Always yours,
Marta Leigh Fonda, daughter of U.S, Park Ranger John Clinton Fonda and Retired Deputy US Marshal
March 9, 2023
Marta:
Thank you for the sincere comments about your father. I am glad we connected and hope to meet you one day in Washington D.C.
And as always, we will never forget.......EVER.
Thomas
National Park Service
March 17, 2021
Dearest Dad,
61 years ago now since that day in Grand Teton. You are so on my mind in the month of March.
You would have turned 89 on the 15th and now your dearest buddy Phil Wickstrom, who just happens to also be your first cousin, is about to turn 90 on the 20th!!
Dad, he misses you so very much. He has told me so many stories of the two of you growing up in Boulder. I love how you loved each other and how almost all interactions included humor and laughs.
Lisa and Galen are taking Phil and Metta to Centralia, Washington today so that he can be celebrated at The Phillip Wickstrom Studio Theatre (‘The Wickstrom’) at Centralia College.
Gosh I wish we could be there dad.. you and I. I mention this as today will be such a mixed day for Phil... celebrating one of his brightest days while remembering one of his darkest.
Mom is doing well and will be getting her second COVID shot on the 17th in Estes Park. I’m sure you will be on her mind today too. Many elk will probably be in her yard and I’m sure she will spend some time outside thinking of you.
Your grandchildren are doing great! Zach is 31 now and still in Denver and Abbey is 29 and will soon be moving to Oklahoma to celebrate being with the love of her life and a new job.
I am still in Dallas because of this crazy virus, but plan on moving back to Washington in early summer.
Okay dad, you are now caught up. I love you so very much.
Thank all of you for taking the time to reflect! My dad loved to write almost as much as he loved to climb and would so appreciate how easily so many can communicate and show their hearts.
Marta Leigh Fonda, daughter of U.S, Park Ranger John Clinton Fonda and Retired Deputy US Marshal
March 9, 2021
Ranger Fonda and Ranger Wilcox, thank you for your service. It is not forgotten.
Grand Teton National Park Employee
NPS
November 10, 2020
Rest in Peace Ranger Fonda, your sacrifice is honored and never forgotten.
The NPS continues to honor your sacrifice daily.
Ms. Marta Fonda (daughter), I have tried to reach you before but failed. Can you email me at [email protected]
Thomas
National Park Service
April 30, 2020
Ranger Fonda,
On today, the 60th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country-not just a Law Enforcement Officer but also when you served during the Korean War. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
R.I.P.
USBP
Anonymous
United States Border Patrol
March 9, 2020
Your heroism and service is honored today, the 52nd anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.
Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered.
Rest In Peace.
Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05
March 9, 2012
Thank you for your service Sir, RIP Hero
James Kotke
Civilian / Former Officer
WSF Park Police (Wi.)
March 9, 2012
Another year has passed and you are still admired and respectfully remembered in the hearts and minds of so many. My thoughts and prayers are with your loved ones and friends on this anniversary of your EOW. You will never be forgotten.
James Sheppard
Father of Sgt. Jason L. Sheppard EOW 12/7/06
March 9, 2010
YOU ARE REMEMBERED TODAY AND THANK YOU SIR FOR YOUR SERVICE
VANDENBERGHE
MANCHESTER, NH
March 11, 2008
Dad,
Today it has been 47 years since mom and I lost you... I only today found this website. I am leaving tonight from Texas with your Granddaughter Abbey and heading for Colorado to see mom. You would be so proud of her...72 years old and still the best skiier I know. I love you dad and have missed you every day that I have been alive. You are within me every day and now are within your two grandchildren. Always, Marta
Marta L. Fonda, DUSM
U.S. Marshals Service, Daughter
March 9, 2007
Ranger Fonda,
On today, the 46th anniversary of your death, I would like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just as a Park Ranger-but to our Country as well during the Korean War.
R.I.P.
Anonymous
March 9, 2006
Ranger Fonda, you are not forgotten
March 9, 2006
Rest in Peace Sir.You are not forgotten.
March 9, 2006
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