The artistic director for and one of the founders of Ovation! Performing Arts Northwest on Bainbridge Island for 18 years has died.

Ronald Ivan Milton passed away April 29 at the age of 70.

At Ovation! he directed dozens of musicals, operas and operettas doing what he did best – achieving outstanding performances from casts composed of all ages and all experience levels, said his wife and creative partner for 41 years, Marijane.

They raised a daughter, Piper, on Bainbridge Island, but more recently moved to Arizona, “which was better suited to Ron at this point in his life,” Marijane said.

Ron was born in Chelan to Robert and Violet Milton on Nov. 25, 1950. He graduated from Wenatchee High School and earned a Bachelor’s of Arts in theater from Western Washington University in Bellingham. He later completed his Master’s in Fine Arts in theater directing at the University of Houston.

Throughout his life as an actor, director, fine artist and designer he worked on more than 200 productions and won many awards, honors and accolades. He also loved animals and gardening.

A ceremony of his memorable life will be held in the fall on Bainbridge Island.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donating in his name to ‘Ovation! Performing Arts Northwest’ or West Sound Wildlife Shelter, which is also on Bainbridge Island.