Ron Stewart

Rondell “Ron” F. Stewart, 74, of Independence, MO passed away Friday, August 20, 2010 at Centerpoint Medical Center, Independence, MO. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 31, 2010, at the Truman Memorial Building, 416 West Maple, Independence, MO 64050. A private inurnment will take place at Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville, MO at a later date. Ron was born August 16, 1936 in Clinton, MO to Joseph L. and Mildred L. (McGuiness) Stewart. Ron’s family moved to the Courtney, MO area in 1942, then made Independence, MO their home in 1950. After serving in the U.S. Army, Ron joined the Independence Police Department in 1960, from which he retired in 1991 after 31 years. He was elected 1st District Councilman in 1992, then served 12 years as Mayor of Independence from 1994 until 2006. Ron was a proud and longtime member of the Ararat Shrine, Masonic Lodge #76, American Legion Post 21, Fraternal Order of Eagles #385 and the Evening Optimist Club of Independence. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Marilyn; three sons, Steve and wife Karen, Butch and wife Kirsty, and Don, one daughter, Sherrill; 16 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; 3 sisters, Margaret James of Platte City, MO, Martha Shirley and husband Larry of Blue Springs, MO, and Ann Whitehurst of Independence, MO; and by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Maywood Baptist Church, 10505 E. Winner Road, Independence, MO 64052, or to a charity of your choice.