OSWEGO — Ronald Kenton “Ronnie” Rife, 77, of Oswego passed away peacefully at his home Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024 after a lengthy illness.
Ronnie was born to Kenton and Ruth Rife on Aug. 8, 1947. He grew up on his family farm south of Oswego, and he was a 1965 graduate of Labette County Community High School. Ronnie married Linda Jane Wilson on Sept. 4, 1969. Ronnie worked for the Katy Railroad for over 20 years in Texas, Oklahoma, and at the Livestock Market as a fieldman and order buyer for McKee Livestock. He was also a representative for Superior Livestock. Ronnie had a love for sports and poker. He spent many years playing softball and golf. Ronnie especially enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports.
Ronnie leaves behind his wife, Linda; two sons, John and Jeff of Welch, Oklahoma; three grandchildren, Wil Rife, Rachel Rife and Erika Weston of Welch, Oklahoma; two sisters, Susan Bates and Karla Cook of Oswego; a sister-in-law, Coralee (Don) Evans of Topeka; a brother-in-law, Russell (Judy) Wilson; a sister- in-law, Joann Rife of Phoenix, Arizona; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Stanley and David.
The family received friends from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Derfelt Funeral Home in Oswego. A graveside service will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday at Oswego Cemetery. The family suggests memorials to Oswego Methodist Church in care of the funeral home.
