Ronald Dean Powell

Ronald Dean Powell was born October 21, 1935 near Long Lane Missouri to Hurschel and Minnie (Pitts) Powell. Ronnie passed away at the age of 81 on March 13, 2017, after a short illness.He grew up on a farm outside of Long Lane, Missouri, and attended both Brushy Ridge and Buffalo schools.On August 20, 1955, Ronnie united in marriage with Joyce Dugan and celebrates sixty-one and a half years together. After living in Illinois for a brief time and working for Caterpillar, he soon returned to Missouri and Windyville to live out his life. Ronnie worked for the Missouri Department of Conservation at the Bennett Spring Fish Hatchery, where he retired after 28 years.Over the years Ronnie participated in several organizations and events in the area: Dallas County Sheriff's Posse, Dallas County Historical Society, a local art club, and was instrumental in organizing Prairie Days, in the early years. He had an early interest in local Native American artifacts and learned much of the culture. His interests also included participating in historical reenactments and rendezvous type events where he would dress in period outfits. Ronnie participated in his many talents throughout the years. He spent a part of each day telling his stories through oil painting, carving and writing. He also had built a shop on his property that he filled with his “Little People” carvings and his paintings. He sold these all over the world. In later years, Ronnie was also the author of four books.An avid reader of all subjects, Ronnie also enjoyed the outdoors where he gardened, hiked, camped or took photos of the wonders around him. Because of his fondness for animals, wild or domestic, Ronnie nursed many creatures back to health when they needed him. His pets included snakes, mice, dogs, cats, roosters, and horses.Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Donnie (his twin) and Richard.He is survived by his wife, Joyce and their three children: Teresa Coltrin, Buffalo, Missouri; Ronnie Jr. and wife Kay of Jerseyville, Illinois; and Tammy Powell of Windyville, Missouri. He is also survived by five grandchildren: Brandon Coltrin and wife Kami of Buffalo; Tessa Coltrin of Springfield; Jenny Powell, Ryon Powell of Lebanon; and Tabatha Powell of Jerseyville Illinois; nine great-grandchildren: Damion, Devon, Kayla, Deegan, Tyler, Darrin, Sadie, Jenna, and Cierah and his sister Sharron and husband David Grantz of Oklahoma; several nieces and nephews and his beloved dog Heidi. Funeral Services were held Friday March 17, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. in the Montgomery-Viets Chapel with Rev. Ben Thatcher officiating. Music was recorded selections "Precious Memories" and "Amazing Grace". Pallbearers were John Laurie, Ike Ikerd, Dean Mason, Marty Bennett, John Bennett, and Mark Starr. With burial in Benton Branch Cemetery under the direction of the Montgomery-Viets Funeral Home of Buffalo.

Ronald Dean Powell

October 21, 1935 - March 13, 2017