Ronald R. Rose, 56, of Manhattan, died Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, at his home in Blue Springs, Mo.

The family provided some of the following information.

Ron was born Nov. 1, 1952, the son of Robert Rose and Katherine Pride. He was a 1970 graduate of Manhattan High School and later attended Topeka Technical College, graduating with several awards including Presidents Honor Roll. He married Elizabeth Hopkins on April 10, 1981.

Ron worked hard his entire life to perfect his skills as a carpenter and enjoyed building dune buggies in his garage when time allowed. He had a great sense of humor and a kind heart and will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife Elizabeth; his children, Ronald Rose Jr. of Wentzville, Mo., Kathy Zrubeck of Newton, Charles Hopkins of Kansas City, Mo., and Denice Thiessen of Wichita; nine grandchildren; father Robert Rose of Williston, Tenn.; his mother, Katherine Pride of Manhattan; sisters Beverly Cragg of Leavenworth, Linda Cragg of Manhattan, and Patty Jensen of Wakefield; brother Kenny Rose of St. George; and extended family and caring friends too numerous to mention.

Ron was preceded in death by his brother Bobby Rose.

A memorial service honoring Ron's life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, 2009, at the First United Methodist Church in Manhattan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Crossroads Hospice of Kansas City, Mo., and to the American Diabetes Association.

Arrangements are being handled by Marts Memorial Services.

obituary from The Manhattan Mercury