NEUFELD, RONALD LEE "RON", 87 , passed away peacefully at his home in Andover on June 5, 2024. Born on September 23, 1936, in McPherson, Kansas, Ron was the cherished son of Abe and Eva Marie (Voth) Neufeld. Ron's early years were marked by frequent relocations due to his father's work, but eventually the family settled in Cheney, Kansas, where Ron attended high school and graduated with the class of 1954.

Ron's pursuit of higher education led him to attend Emporia State University, Pratt Junior College, and Dodge City Junior College. In 1956, he married Georgeann Long, and together they had three children: David, Deanna, and Douglas. Ron found his calling in the field of aircraft manufacturing.  His expertise as a Powerplant Engineer took him across various locations, including a stint in Salt Lake City. Throughout his career Ron worked for notable companies such as Boeing, Beechcraft, Pratt and Whitney-Canada, Lear Jet and ultimately retired from Hawker Beechcraft Corp in 1999. He earned his DER certification for the FAA & played a crucial role in accident investigations, showcasing his dedication and expertise in his field.

In June 1973, Ron married Lois Jantz, marking the beginning of a loving partnership that spanned over 50 years. Together, they made their home in Andover, Kansas, and shared numerous travel adventures with family & close friends. They explored destinations like New Zealand, Hungary, Australia, South Africa, Tahiti, Mexico, Costa Rica, the Bahamas and much of Europe. Ron and Lois cherished these times, creating lasting memories & making new friends with each trip.
Ron was a man of many interests. He had a deep love for fishing and golfing, and he especially treasured spending time with his family. One of his favorite places was their second home on Table Rock Lake, where he enjoyed early morning fishing trips with his daughter & grandson, who willingly got up at dawn to go with him. Despite his quiet demeanor, those who got to know Ron discovered a man of strong opinions and deep convictions.

Ron's life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and the importance of family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His legacy is carried on by his wife Lois; daughter Deanna Paterson (John); sister Rhonda Sue Cavanaugh (Tom); brother-in-law Marlin Jantz (Betty); sister-in-law Sharon Showalter (Welby); grandchildren James Paterson (Natasha) and Aimee Paterson-Jensen (Keith); great-grandchildren Hugo Paterson, Zara Paterson, Oliver Jensen, and Amelia Jensen; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, other family members, and friends. Ron was preceded in death by his parents Abe and Eva and his beloved sons David and Douglas.

A celebration of Ron's life will be held on September 21, 2024, at the family's home. This gathering will honor Ron's memory and the profound impact he had on the lives of those who knew and loved him. Ron Neufeld's life was one well-lived, filled with love, family, adventure, and dedication, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished forever. Memorials may be made to a charity of your choice in Ron's memory.