Ronald "Ron" Lee Hontz, 72, of Lampe, Missouri, formerly of Odessa, Missouri, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, July 31, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd St., Odessa, MO 64076 (816-633-5524). A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment with military honors will take place at Odessa Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Table Rock Quilts of Honor or Veterans of the Ozarks. Memories of Ron and condolences for his family may be shared at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on the funeral home's Facebook page.

Ron was born on August 25, 1953, in Independence, Missouri, to Robert "Bob" Lee Hontz and Ruth Johanna (Bilquist) Hontz. He answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy, where he served honorably before returning home to begin the next chapter of his life.

On June 11, 1971, Ron married the love of his life, Katherine "Kathy" Louise Westerhold, in Odessa, Missouri. Together they built a life centered on love, hard work, faithfulness, and family. Their marriage of more than 55 years was a testament to their unwavering commitment to one another.

After returning home from the Navy, Ron worked on the family farm in Napoleon, MO.

Ron dedicated his career to the carpentry trade as a proud member of Carpenters Local 1329 in Kansas City, retiring in 2015 after many years of skilled craftsmanship. He also found great pride in serving fellow veterans through Veterans of the Ozarks and Table Rock Quilts of Honor. He was a member of Blue Springs Elks Lodge 2509 and an associate member of Kimberling City Elks Lodge 2505, where he formed many lasting friendships. Ron was very active in the Veteran’s Day Parade, driving the truck for the Table Rock Quilts of Honor that displayed the quilts made.

Ron never met a stranger. He was happiest when he was surrounded by family and friends, sharing stories, laughter, and creating memories that will be treasured for years to come. Whether he was building something in his woodworking shop, enjoying a round of golf, bowling with friends, traveling, or camping, Ron embraced life with a generous spirit and an appreciation for the simple joys. More than anything else, he loved being “Husband”, “Dad,” “Grandpa,” and “Great-Grandpa.” His greatest pride was watching his family grow, and the time he spent with them was the greatest gift of his life.

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife, Kathy Hontz of Lampe, Missouri; two sons, Chris (Laurie) Hontz of Oak Grove, Missouri, and Travis (Karrie) Hontz of Oak Grove, Missouri; five grandchildren, Joshua Hawkins, Melanie (Brad) Montgomery, Cheyanne (Patrick) Yuille, Theo Hontz, and Austin Hontz; three great-grandchildren, Novalee Yuille, Ryder Montgomery, and Ellington Yuille; a niece, Stacia (Mark) Massey; a nephew, Ryan Hontz; along with many extended family members, dear friends, fellow veterans, and colleagues whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Stephen Hontz; and a nephew, Stevie Hontz.

Ron's legacy is one of love, service, integrity, and kindness. He lived a life devoted to his family, his country, and his community. While he will be deeply missed, his gentle heart, steady presence, and the countless memories he created will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved him.