COLONY — Ronald John Burris Sr., 82, a resident of Colony, passed away peacefully surrounded by his daughters at his home on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024.
Ronald was born April 16, 1942, in Hamilton to John Peter and Hazel Charlotte (Uhl) Burris.
Ronald completed the eighth grade and then went on to earn a GED during his school-aged years. Ronald graduated from Allen County Community College and majored in political science. He also earned a bachelor of science degree in administration of justice with a minor in pre-law from Wichita State University.
As a young adult, Ronald proudly enlisted in the United States Army on May 28, 1962, to go fight for our freedom in the Vietnam War. Ronald was very proud of his responsibilities during his time in the Army and made to sure let his kids and grandkids know he sat “door gunner” on the choppers during the war. Ronald served four years in the United States Army. Ronald then reenlisted in the United States Navy, where he proudly served in the Navy Seabees for 20 months. Ronald was a proud veteran and held it very near and dear to his heart. Ronald took every opportunity he had to thank a service member or veteran for their service.
Ronald was self-employed most of his life. Like his father, Ronald worked in the oil fields for over 40 years and became quite successful. It was his true passion, and he thoroughly enjoyed it.
Ronald had a very full and adventurous life. Ronald was an avid coin collector. He loved to buy and hunt for coins. He never spent any change in his pocket so he could look for unique and valuable coins. Ronald also loved going to the casino. He seemed to never lose any money. His trips were also extra special when he loaded up his beloved dog, Odie, and took him to the casino with him. He also enjoyed traveling, taking frequent vacations alone and with his daughters. Ronald also had a love for Raiders football and rooted for a win every game. Ronald’s children and grandchildren were the light of his life. He thoroughly enjoyed every minute he had with them and treasured their close bond. He had four children and seven grandchildren who will love and miss him forever.
Ronald is survived by his children, Kelsey Lampe (Levi), La Harpe, Sara Burris (Charles Hon), Iola, and Kaci Peres (Zachery), Overland Park; his grandchildren, Cadin Peres, Maddilyn Peres, Isabella Peres, Asher Peres, Ellie Lampe, Emersyn Lampe and Willow Peres; two sisters, Melba Shields and Patricia Burris of Parsons; his dog, Odie; and many, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Ronald was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Ronald John Burris Jr.; a brother, Harvey Burris; two infant siblings; and his lifelong friend, Mick Winner.
The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9, at Countryside Funeral Home in Chanute followed by a funeral service at 10 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 16, at Fellowship Regional Church in Iola. Burial will take place at the Highland Cemetery in Iola with military honors.
A highlight of Ronald’s life was participating in the Veterans Honor Flight. Memorial donations are suggested for the Southern Coffey Honor Flight and may be left with the funeral home. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home.
