Ronald Joseph Evanson, 74, formerly of Oshkosh, passed away August 11, 2012, in Kansas City, Kansas. Ronald was born August 6, 1938, the beloved and treasured son of Irean and Newell Evanson of Oshkosh.
Ronald was the cherished brother of twin sisters; Karon (Leonard) Himmler of Oshkosh, and Sharon (Jack) Oliver of Pickett. Ron graduated from Oshkosh High School in 1956, where he lettered in baseball, basketball, and track. He attended UW-Madison, and in 1959 went to Joplin, MO. working for Tobin Construction and was recognized as "Osh" by co-workers. He later became employed by General Motors, where he retired after 26 years as a General Foreman and was recognized as "Buschel" by co-workers. While employed with GM he played baseball and later became Umpire-in-Chief for the Kansas City Area. After retiring he was employed by longtime friend Tom Brownback for Max Power Mower.
Ron was a huge fan and avid T-bones supporter, holding season tickets for ten years where he rarely missed a game. The ball field was one of his favorite places to be even as a supporter for his children and their many sporting endeavors. Ron was a Cubs fan all his life. Ron, his wife Marie, and his twin sisters all celebrated their 50th anniversaries last year. Ron also loved spending yearly vacations with his twin sisters' families and his brothers in law Jack and Lenny who were always referred to as his "brothers." Ron's philosophy in life was: "he never met anyone he didn't like".
Ron is survived by his wife of 50 plus years, Marie; children: Steven R. Evanson (Sondia Brakefield) of Leavenworth, KS, Shelly D. Whitson (Husband Bill) of Mesa, AZ, Scott A. Evanson (Wife Charlotte) of Lathrop, MO; twin sisters: Sharon (Jack) Oliver of Picket, Karon (Lenny) Himmler of Oshkosh, and half-sister, Merle (Grady) Kirksey, of Dallas, TX. Ron is further survived by five grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents Newell and Irean Evanson of Oshkosh, two half-sisters: Norma Glines of Rhinelander, and Nola Sweet of Oshkosh.
Services were held in Kansas City, KS and as his wife Marie carried Ron's cremains in her arms from the church the congregation sang "Take Me Out to the Ball Game."
A Mass of intention will be celebrated on Sunday September 16 at 10:45 AM at Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, St. Peter site, Oshkosh.
Ronnie, you will always be our hero. Happy Trails until we meet again, love forever Sharon and Karon.