‘Tarzan’ star Ron Ely, 86, dies five years after death of his wife and son

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Ronald Perce Ely aka Ron Ely, the tall and muscular star of the 1960s NBC series 'Tarzan,' died on September 29 at 86, as reported by his daughter. He died at his home in Los Alamos, leaving a legacy as an iconic figure in television history.

Ron, born on June 21, 1938, in Hereford, Texas, was also well-known for his lead role in the film 'Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze.' His death comes five years after the tragic deaths of his wife, Valerie Lundeen, and his son, Cameron Ely.

In a heartfelt announcement, Ron's daughter shared her grief, reflecting on the many lessons he taught her and the cherished moments they shared.

Ron Ely's daughter deems him 'one of the greatest men' 

In an Instagram post shared on Wednesday, October 23, Ron Ely's daughter confirmed the legendary actor's death. Multiple credible sources also reported that he died at the home of one of his daughters near Santa Barbara, California. Kirsten, Ron's daughter, further verified the news to Fox News Digital.

Kirsten shared a carousel of 20 photos that captured precious moments with her father. She began her post with a heartfelt statement: "The world has lost one of the greatest men it has ever known - and I have lost my dad."

She praised him, saying, "My father was someone that people called a hero. He was an actor, writer, coach, mentor, family man and leader. He created a powerful wave of positive influence wherever he went."

"The impact he had on others is something that I have never witnessed in any other person - there was something truly magical about him. This is how the world knew him," she emphasized.

She continued, "I knew him as my dad - and what a heaven sent honor that has been. To me, he hung the moon."

She celebrated his dedication to his craft and the meaningful impact he had on those around him: "My father’s life story was one of relentless perserverence, unending dedication to his family and friends, courage to do what was right, and willing sacrifice to facilitate the dreams of those he loved. It was also a story of joy and love - something everyone close to him had the privilege of experiencing. Once you knew my father’s love, the world grew to be a brighter and more meaningful place."

Kirsten expressed her determination to navigate this path of loss with the strength and grace her father would have wanted for her. She added, "I picking up the pieces of my heart that feel like pieces of him - and cementing those firmly in place before I pick up the rest of the broken bits. It makes me feel like part of him is still here - and I need that - and the world needs that."

She concluded with a comforting thought, "My greatest comfort is knowing that my dad is with my momma and my brother. It is also my greatest sadness because I miss them all so much that it’s etched into my soul. I will proudly carry all of my favorite pieces of them - lovingly cemented into my heart - until we all meet again."

Tributes pour in after Ron Ely's death

After the news of legendary actor Ron Ely's death, many internet users expressed their condolences on Facebook, with several recalling his memorable performances in various projects.

One user shared, "RIP I loved watching his version of Tarzan when I was a kid."

A second stated, "Rest in peace, Ron you are a great Tarzan and Dr. Savage."

A third wrote, "I was just talking about him with my sister last night. Cause I was watching the newest Tarzan with her."

Another user wrote, "I had such a crush on him when I was younger." 

One person commented, "Always wanted to watch the old shows of Tarzan but can’t find where to go."

A user penned, "So sorry sad l praying Show on tv moive I miss good man God bless you."

This article contains remarks made on the internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.