Ronald Heaps "Plow" Schow Sr.

Ronald Heaps "Plow" Schow, 79, of Casper, Wyoming, passed away on February 23, 2026, while working on his lanai—a fitting reflection of his lifelong passion for building and creating. Born on June 9, 1946, in Panquitch, Utah, to Ronald Schow and Evan (Heaps) Schow, Ron lived a life defined by hard work, generosity, and an unwavering dedication to his family and community.

Ron graduated from Escalante High School (Moqui) in 1965 before embarking on a remarkable journey of service and craftsmanship. From 1966 to 1971, he served as an electrician in the U.S. Navy, stationed in Bremerton, Washington and his service was aboard the U.S.S. Ranger deployed in Southeast Asia. During his military career, he earned numerous honors including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon.

After completing his military service, Ron returned home to pursue a diverse and industrious career. He worked as a drill hand for Teton Exploration before honing his skills as a welder at Pepper Tank. Later roles included positions at the Texaco Refinery until its closure in 1982 and with Heathen Drywall. He also worked alongside his children at Natrona Transfer and Storage while taking on delivery work for Xerox. However, it was in September 1984 that Ron found his true calling when he started Plow's Diner out of the old HiWay Cafe. For over four decades, he became the heart and soul of the diner—welcoming patrons with warmth and humor while serving up hearty meals.

Ron’s life was rich with hobbies that reflected his adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors. He cherished horse pack trips and Pony Express riding as well as target shooting and hunting. Family fishing trips aboard the pontoon boat were treasured moments of togetherness. Snowmobiling, 4-wheeling, camping trips, and spending time with friends and family at the cabin on Casper Mountain—all were part of the vibrant tapestry of Ron’s life. A skilled craftsman with an innate ability to build or fix anything he set his mind to, Ron was rarely seen without tools in hand—his bibs always stocked with a knife, screws, and a sharpie.

Above all else, Ron was devoted to his family. He is survived by his loving wife Paula Chaney; son Ron "Buck" (Melissa); daughter Chari (Will); son Bruce Stewart (Mel); granddaughters Ronnie Schow; Schpri Roszel (Kehlin); Cassidy Miskimins; grandsons Torey (Alice), Maxwell, Nicholas (Braylee); eight great-grandchildren with another on the way; brothers Lynn and Marlin "Buster"; sisters Kathy, Karen, and Beth. He was predeceased by his parents Ronald Schow and Evan (Heaps) Schow; sisters Lois (Schow) Spencer and Susie (Schow) Thuston.

Ron will be remembered not only for his extraordinary talents but also for his generous heart and quick wit. Whether sharing stories or lending a helping hand to someone in need, he left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. His wisdom—emotional, mechanical, social—and loyalty made him a pillar of strength for those around him.

As we reflect on Ron’s incredible legacy—a life filled with love for family adventures under open skies—we find comfort knowing he passed doing what he loved most: creating something meaningful with his own two hands.

May Ron’s memory continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. A Celebration of Life will be held on February 27, 2026, from 03:00 PM to 06:00 PM at Casper Elks Lodge 108 E 7th St. Military Honor will be presented at 3:00 in City Park on 7th and Center Streets.

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