Ronald (Ron) E. Jackson died on Jan. 13 at his home in Sarasota, Fla. He was 86.

Ron was married to Margaret (Freeman) Jackson for 65 years. They moved from West Roxbury to Martha’s Vineyard in 1970.

He earned his pilot’s license and owned a plane. He enjoyed many flights around New England. One of his most memorable flights was bringing Bobby Orr to the Island for an alumni tournament Fundraiser.

He was a hockey player and fan who had a significant role in bringing a hockey rink to the Island which allowed the Island’s youth hockey program to grow exponentially. Not ready to hang up his skates, he refereed many games, leading the path for his son Ron and grandson Anthony to follow.

Ron was an avid golfer and tennis player who loved a good competition (if he was winning!). He was successful business owner, which included several ventures with his wife Peggy. His businesses included Jackson Builders, Vineyards Builders Supply, VH Laundromat and Plane View Restaurant. Most notably, he owned and operated the well-known family restaurant and tavern, the Ocean View for 37 years with his wife Peggy, children and grandchildren. He enjoyed running into former employees or patrons to share a fond memory or story; they were endless.

He is survived by his children Ron Jackson, Jr. (Rene), Sharon Jackson, Robert Jackson (Jill), Michael Jackson (Jean) and William Jackson all of Martha’s Vineyard.

He is also survived by his grandchildren Michael Jackson (Laura, Lindsay Hopkins (Rahmale), Brandon Smith, Callie, Anthony, Taylor, McKensi and Neve Jackson, great-grandchildren; Luke, Remi and Grant Hopkins and Maple Jackson.

He enjoyed his retirement years in both Sarasota and Martha’s Vineyard, where he continued to play golf and tennis with his regular group of buddies.

A celebration of life will be held in June.

“And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years”.