Help Us Celebrate Ron Wilson’s Legacy

Dear friends, family, and loved ones,

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved Ron, a man whose humor, kindness, and talent brought light to everyone he met.

Ron was one of the original Groundlings and later shared his gift by teaching others, even creating one of the first college improv classes and founding Improv Inferno. His boundless creativity and spontaneous spirit touched countless lives, both within the improv community and beyond.

Ron was also a talented videographer, a beloved teacher, a great friend and even a participant (and sometimes winner) on the Gong Show.

To honor his legacy, we will be holding a celebration of life at a place that meant so much to him—The Groundlings Theatre—in Spring 2025. This special venue, where Ron spent many of his best years with his beloved mentor Gary Austin, feels like the perfect place to gather in remembrance.

Along with covering memorial and end-of-life medical expenses, a portion of the funds raised will be used to establish a scholarship in Ron’s name which will support improv classes taught by Wenndy MacKenzie (the widow of Groundlings founder Gary Austin). and will continue Ron’s passion for improv by helping new performers pursue their creative journeys.

Whether you are able to donate or simply share this campaign, your help is deeply appreciated as we celebrate Ron’s life and legacy. Any contribution you can make will help us honor Ron in a way that reflects the love and joy he shared with the world. We are deeply grateful for your support, thoughts, and prayers during this tremendously sad and difficult time.

NOTE: If you have photos or video clips you’d like to share, we would love to include them in the memorial. If you would like to speak at the event, please let us know.