Ronnie Van Etten

Ronnie Lynn Van Etten, born on May 4, 1948, in Anthony, Kansas, to the late Wilbur and Deloris (Huffman) Van Etten, passed away on February 14, 2025, in Wichita, Kansas, at the age of 76. He joins those who have gone before him, leaving behind a legacy of strength, dedication, and love.

Ronnie, affectionately known as Ron, was a protective and loving brother to Rick and Rita. He graduated from Heights High School in Wichita and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in business from Wichita Business College at Wichita State University. Grateful for his education, Ron applied his skills in service to his beloved country as a member of the United States Air Force. His military career took him to various parts of the world, including Elgin AFB in Florida and Pleiku AFB in Vietnam. Ron retired from the Air Force with honors, including the National Defense Service Medal and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, cherishing the memories and friendships he made along the way.

Parallel to his military career, Ron worked in the aircraft industry, dedicating himself to supporting his family through his roles at The Boeing Company and later at Spirit AeroSystems, from which he ultimately retired. His expertise and dedication were instrumental in his professional success.

Ron was a dedicated master Mason with the Scottish Rite, where he earned his Red and White hats. As Master of Lodge 99 in 1981 and a 33rd degree Mason, Ron was known for his proficiency in memory work and his commitment to the Scottish Rite. His joy for the organization was evident in his tireless service as a Trustee and personal representative for the Scottish Rite at the time of his passing. Ron was also a proud member of The Plane of Mercy, a fraternal organization in Kansas associated with the Midian Shriners.

On July 11, 1980, Ron married the love of his life, Dorie. Together, they would have celebrated 45 years of marriage in July 2025. Although Ron did not have children of his own, he lovingly embraced Dorie's daughters, Connie (Howard) and Erica (Kelly) Schaar, as if they were his own. He was a loving mentor and father figure to them, and a devoted grandpa to Brandon (Roxann) Roe and Andi (Andrea) Roe. Ron was also a great-grandfather to Destiny Roe, Brooklyn (Chris Riggs), and Sadie Roe, and a great-great-grandfather to Dakota Riggs.

Above all, Ron cherished his family, always making time for and looking out for any needs. And in his downtime, as a devoted Kansas City Chiefs fan, Ron enjoyed catching games, supporting them and all of his favorite college football teams. However, it wasn't only this family Ron cared for as he had a special place in his heart for dogs, and his beloved pets, including Sparkey (his childhood Cocker Spaniel), Peaches, Joy, Sheba, and Shelby, brought him immense joy. He also adored many grand dogs, who were part of his extended family too.

Those left to honor his memory are his wife, children, siblings, and many grand, great and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Ronnie Lynn Van Etten will be remembered as a man of gratitude, full of life, and a guardian of the values he cherished. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A Visitation for Ron will be Monday, February 24, 2025 with family present from 5 PM to 7 PM. A Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 1:00 PM with a graveside service immediately to follow. All at Resthaven Mortuary and Gardens of Memory, Garden of Bruce Newton, 11800 West Highway 54, Wichita, KS 67209.

MEMORIALS: Beauties & Beasts, 136 S. Pattie St., Wichita, KS 67211 - beautiesandbeasts.org and Midian Shrine or Midian Shrine Plane of Mercy, 130 Topeka St., Wichita, KS 67202 - midianshrine.org.