Ronald Owen Wright

January 30, 1957 — June 9, 2026

Paola, Kansas

Ronald Owen Wright, age 69, of Paola, Kansas, passed away on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at

The University of Kansas Hospital in Olathe, Kansas.

Ron was born January 30, 1957, in Kansas City, Missouri, the sixth of nine children born to Clyde Robert and Margaret Mary (Boyd) Wright. He grew up in Calhoun and Clinton, Missouri where he attended school at Queen of The Holy Rosary. During his high school years, Ron worked shining shoes to earn extra money, demonstrating the strong work ethic that would remain with him throughout his life.

Following high school, Ron worked on a pig farm before beginning a career that included various farming and printing warehouse positions. He was known as a hardworking and dedicated employee who took pride in his work. His final position was as a machinist with Gear Headquarters, where he worked until his retirement in 2022.

Ron was the proud father of seven children: Justin, Jessica, Jason, Matthew, Jonny, Jeremy, and Jacob. Family was the center of his life, and he especially cherished time spent with his grandchildren. Whether sharing stories, attending activities, or simply enjoying their company, being a grandfather brought him great joy.

In his free time, Ron enjoyed smoking meat, fishing, and hiking. He appreciated the outdoors and found happiness in simple moments spent with family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Margaret Wright; and his sisters, Connie Annis and Debbie Wright.

Ron is survived by his children, Justin Wright, Jessica Wright, Jason Wright, Matthew Wright, Jonny Wright, Jeremy Wright, and Jacob Wright; his ten grandchildren, Dakota, Catherine, Krystal, Parker, Maverick, Caroline, Kingston, William, Lucas, and Andrew; his siblings, Patty Gould, Mike Wright, Terri Borger, Gary Wright, Denise Wright, and Lisa Wright-Dupuy; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other extended family members.

Ron will be remembered for his strong work ethic, love of the outdoors, devotion to his family, and the pride he took in providing for those he loved. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

(Published in the Linn County Journal on June 14, 2026.)