Ronald Apfel

(From Parker Mortuary)

Ronald Charles Apfel, age 84 of Joplin, went to be with the Lord at 7:47 p.m. on Sunday, January 24, 2016.

Born December 21, 1931 in Fremont, NE, he was the son of the late Deon F. Apfel and Margaret Leone Riordan Apfel and lived in Joplin most of his lifetime. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. Ron retired from Empire District Electric Company. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Joplin Historical Society, served on the board of John C. Cox Cemetery Project and was a charter member of Joplin Exchange Club. He was past president of Jasper County Industrial Development and first commissioner of Joplin Housing Authority.

On December 21, 1952 he married Minnie Lucile (Mindy) Kolkmeyer in Joplin. She preceded him in death on April 19, 2015.

Survivors include a son, Michael Alan Apfel and wife Deb of Overland Park, KS; a daughter, Carol Lee Bird and husband Dave of Carl Junction; three grandchildren, Andrew Deon Apfel of Overland Park, Natalie Nicole Bird and Kristopher David Bird, both of Carl Junction.

A memorial service for both Ron and his wife Mindy will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, February 6th at Parker Chapel with Pastor James Schnackenberg officiating, after which, the family will receive friends. Private interment will be in Mount Hope Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to John C. Cox Pioneer Cemetery Project or Joplin Humane Society.