Ronald Ray Wood, Ron, was born in Moberly, MO in 1940 to Clyde H. Wood and Alice Jackson Wood. He grew up in towns throughout Missouri and Kansas, moving for his Dad’s work managing paint stores. His sister Alicia was born in 1952 when he was almost 12 years old. He was always Ronnie to Alicia. As a boy, he was introduced to ham radio, a passion he pursued his entire life, call sign KøBRO, including winning many contests for making contacts worldwide.
Ron graduated from Grandview High School and attended the University of Missouri, receiving an electrical engineering degree in 1964, and he went on to complete a law degree from UMKC all while working and starting a family. Ron married Judith L. Stewart (Judy) in 1964. Together they traveled, attended MU football games and enjoyed many plays at the Lyceum theater. This year, they celebrated 61 years of marriage. They had three children Kelly (George), David (Maria), and Katie (Paul), all of whom have a passion for life-long learning in a variety of fields including education and programming. His children's spouses and extended family in Denmark, Arizona, and on the East Coast offered love and support throughout the years. Ron had a fulfilling career at Black & Veatch, culminating as the President and CEO B&V Energy, retiring after 42 years. He is remembered for supporting many colleagues in their careers, helping to create pathways to success.
Ron’s eight grandchildren were his great joy. Connor, Claire, Elise, Jonas, Mimi, Ali, Gus and DJ. He was Papa to Kelly and David’s kids and Grandpapa to Katie’s kids. He prioritized their education and quality time with them including amazing trips to Colorado, France, Puget Sound, Cape Cod, and Ecuador. He hiked and camped at Camp Philmont and walked parts of El Camino de Santiago with the Finn granddaughters when he was 74 years old. He loved attending his grandchildren's plays, sporting events, and could be known to patiently complete a thousand-piece Lego set with his grandsons. Most Friday nights, he and Judy could be found at Minsky’s Pizza with the Wood family. He was up for any Portland or Oregon adventure when visiting out West.
Ron was dedicated to Mizzou. He was a life member of the Alumni Association, the Jefferson Club, and many more. He was passionate about the School of Engineering and fostering pathways to studying engineering. Among many other recognitions, he received the Distinguished Service Alumni Award in 2023. He shared many happy memories with his “Motley Crew” tailgating and steak nights. He was so proud that all three Finn grandkids graduated from Mizzou.
After moving out to the woods, Ron became a committed board member and eventually the President of the Cass County Public Water Supply District No. 2. Ron and Judy developed a fun community in South Kansas City with many memorable dinners.
He was a Boy Scout leader for Troop 10 and promoted learning for many young people and spent countless weekends camping with Connor. Throughout his life, Ron also spent many weekends racing his J80 boat at Lake Perry and also enjoyed sailing trips with his dear friends in the Caribbean. He was an accomplished sailing captain. Additional interests included quail and pheasant hunting and fishing with buddies, attending the Big Muddy Music festival and enjoying time with his cats Red and Blue.
Ron was curious and interested in life until the end. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
A visitation for Ronald will be held Friday, July 18, 2025 from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, Missouri 64131.
