Merced council member resigns during Oct. 20 meeting. Here’s why
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- Councilman Ronnie De Anda, 84, resigned Oct. 20, citing health reasons.
- De Anda reported a recent minor stroke causing memory and speech difficulties.
- His resignation takes effect Oct. 31; council must fill District 2 vacancy by Dec. 31.
Merced City council member Ronnie De Anda, 84, resigned last night citing personal and family health struggles.
“Rumor has it that tonight is my last city council meeting. It’s not a rumor. It’s true,” De Anda said. “... This past year has not been very kind to (my wife) and myself.”
De Anda represents District 2 and recently suffered a minor stroke, he said, which has led to memory and speech difficulties.
“Those of you that are here frequently have actually heard me start to say something, and I can’t finish my thoughts,” he said. “And I thought about that, and I said ‘I must do this.’”
“I have to drop out,” De Anda said.
Following De Anda’s announcement, city council members each expressed their gratitude and respect for De Anda’s service to Merced.
“You continue to just treat everyone like they are your family, because you love the city so much,” City council member Darin Dupont said. “You love south Merced so much... Hopefully, one day I could be a Ronnie De Anda.”
DeAnda’s resignation is effective Oct. 31. If filled by appointment, the position must be filled by Dec. 31.
This story was originally published October 21, 2025 at 11:07 AM.