Final Salute

Ronald John Burris Sr., age 82, a resident of Colony, Kansas, surrounded by his daughters, passed away peacefully at his home on December 4, 2024.
Ronald was born April 16,1942 in Hamilton, Kansas to John Peter Burris and Hazel Charlotte Uhl (Burris).
Ronald completed the 8th grade and then went on to earn a GED for 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 4 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 always 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. He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Iola, Kansas.
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 it 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 many 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 4 children and 7 grandchildren who will love and miss him forever.
Ronald is survived by his children, Kelsey Lampe (Levi), La Harpe, KS, Sara Burris (Charles Hon), Iola, KS and Kaci Peres (Zachery), Overland Park, KS. Two sisters, Melba Shields and Patricia Burris of Parsons. His Grandchildren, Cadin Peres, Maddilyn Peres, Isabella Peres, Asher Peres, Ellie Lampe, Emersyn Lampe, and Willow Peres. His dog, Odie and many, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Ronald John Burris Jr, and a brother, Harvey Burris, two infant siblings, and his lifelong friend, Mick Winner.
The family will greet family and friends for a visitation on Monday, December 9th from 5:00pm-7:00pm at Countryside Funeral Home in Chanute, KS followed by Funeral Services on Monday, December 16th at 10:00am at Fellowship Regional Church in Iola, KS. Burial will take place at the Highland Cemetery in Iola, KS with Military Honors.
A highlight of Ronalds 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.

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