Two Richmond policemen on an air surveillance mission were killed July 5 when their Cessna 172 was struck by another small plane.

Ronald H. Fuller, a narcotics officer, and William C. Whitty, the pilot, died instantly. They were just beginning a narcotics enforcement operation at the time of the accident.

Officer Fuller, 35, was a 10-year veteran of the department and had worked about a year in the narcotics investigation division. He was described as a quiet, modest and unassuming man who was “an outstanding officer.”  He was the consummate professional and advanced from patrolman, to K-9 handler with trusted German Shepard partner Dohr; to narcotics investigation officer, much of the time along side trusted friend and fellow officer Ray Howard.

Aside from an obvious dedication to his community’s safety, Ron’s motivation was his family. His wife and high school sweetheart, Vickie; and their children Kimberly and Sharon were the focal points of his life. On a regular basis, he and Vickie volunteered as parent-aides at their daughter’s Hidden Valley Elementary School. Busy with their own family and individual careers, investing time in the school was important to Ron and Vickie and, as a result, they positively touched the lives of so many young people in their formative years.

Vices? Diversions? Ha, Ha! Yes! Out late and fishing with Bill, Mark, and “Sugar Bear”.

Ron’s family will undoubtedly miss him at times, but they will never be alone. They know his love and spirit will always be with them.

Update: Vickie guided the family into adulthood while becoming a successful manager for a large Bay Area company. Both Kim and Sharon are now following in those same footsteps of career and family.