Ronald Knutson

     Ronald Anthony Knutson, 86, Nevada, MO passed away on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at the Bungalow’s in Nevada.   Ron was born December 14, 1937, in Gary, SD to Carl B. and Gertie (Sleaper) Knutson.  He married Mary Buchholtz and three children were born to this union:  Rae Deane, Debra, and Rhonda.  He later married Sharron Kay McWilliams on April 8, 1983, in Mt. Home, ID and she preceded him in death on July 6, 2023.

    Ron moved to Minnesota at a young age with his family.  He grew up in Verdi, MN, and graduated from Verdi Public High School Class of 1956.  Right out of high school, Ron joined and enjoyed a distinguished career in the Air Force, including two tours in Vietnam and was awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze star with “V” device for Valor.   He retired from the Air Force after 24 years and then served an additional 20 years in the US Civil Services until his retirement.  Ron resided in Southern Idaho for more than 2 decades and came to Vernon County, MO in 2000.

     Survivors include his five children, Rae Dean Brooks (Roy), Mt. Home, ID, Debra Jourdan (James), Mt. Home, ID, Rhonda Cone (Rod), Carnation, WA, Danny McWilliams (Angie), El Dorado Springs, MO, and Lindsey Covington (Lee), Nevada, MO; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; two sisters, Rhoda Thomas, Sioux Falls, SD, and Dorothea Howell (Harvey), Centerview, MO; one brother, Carl Knutson (Carolyn), Verdi, MN; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, Sharron, he was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson; a brother, Norman Knutson; and a sister, Marlys Bruemmer.

     Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada with Rev. Aaron Schumann officiating. Interment with Military Honors will follow in the National Cemetery, Fort Scott, KS at 12:30 p.m.

     Memorials are suggested to the Faith Lutheran Church in Pittsburg, KS in c/o Ferry Funeral Home.

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