Ronald D. Eckels, son of William and Ruth (Hetzel) Eckels, began his earthly journey April 23, 1939 in Trego County, Kansas and was called home on September 21, 2024 in Wichita, Kansas.

He was educated in Ness County and graduated from NCHS in 1957. He played football and enjoyed being in the band. After high school, Ron attended Hutchinson Community College, then joined the United States Navy in 1959. He served on the USS Forrestal and completed several Mediterranean tours. His service was extended until 1963 because of the Cuban Missile Crisis.

In June 1963, he married Jan Clouston of Ness City. To this union was born Joy Cooper (David) of Shawnee, Kansas, William Eckels (Kim) of Wichita, Kansas, Michael Eckels (Stacie) of Fort Collins, Colorado, and Melody Fisher (Nolan) of Holyrood, Kansas. Ron en­joyed his six granddaughters: Kathryn Cooper, Emily Eckels-David­son (Tim), MaKenzie Cooper, Grace Eckels, Kristen Eckels, and So­nora Fisher.

In addition to his wife, children, and grandchildren, Ron is sur­vived by his siblings, Kay Wasinger, Jerry Eckels (Ann), Linda Schneider (Don), and William Eckels (Connette), a brother-in-law, Jim Clouston, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a granddaughter, Kristen Eckels; a sister, Cary Gay Eckels; a brother-in-law, Wilbur Wasinger; and a niece, Lori Clouston.

From 1966 to 1992, Ron and Jan lived on the family farm where they raised their four children. Together, they enjoyed sports, Saddle Club, and 4-H. The house was always full of music! After the family moved to Ness City in 1992, Ron worked at USD 303 in Maintenance. Later on, he did carpentry work, remodeled houses, restored old pick­ups, and made numerous musical instruments. He also carved bears (and other animals as requested). He and Jan enjoyed going to area craft fairs with his creations. You will still see bears around Ness City that Ron carved.

Ron and Jan were members of the Praise Team for many years and sang in several area churches. There wasn't a stringed instrument that Ron couldn't play, and he sang for many weddings, funerals, and celebrations. He and Jan often sang for residents at Long Term Care.

He was a member of Ness City Methodist Church, The American Legion, Ness City Saddle Club and a 4-H Leader. He served 12 years as Commissioner of the First District of Ness County. Ron was always there to lend a hand to anyone who needed help.

Because of health issues, Ron and Jan had recently moved to Wichita to be near family. Ron will be dearly missed by friends and family, but we know he is home now, happy, and probably building a beautiful place for the rest of us. We thank the Lord for helping us through this time. Victory is Ron's!

A Memorial Service will be on April 26, 2025 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home at 11:00 a.m. with military rites with the Bazine American Legion.

Me­morial contributions may be made to Ness City Methodist Church, Ness County Historical Society, or Ness City Library.

Words of comfort and support may be left for the family by signing the guestbook.