Kenneth Ronald Nicely

Kenneth Ronald Nicely, age 81, passed away October 4, 2025. Funeral services will be held at 1PM, Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at Park Lawn Funeral Home. 

Ron's life was filled with love for family, his little dogs, music, writing poetry and gardening. Growing beautiful tea roses was a specialty. 

Ron had a terrific voice beginning in high school when he auditioned and was chosen for the lead in "The King and I" at Shawnee Mission High School. 

He sang for many weddings and funerals, and solos or duets at church. He also auditioned for and was chosen to sing as a tenor in the Heartland Men's Chorus for several years.

Writing poetry was another talent, and his work was published in several national volumes of poetry. 

His childhood was a simple one. A favorite pastime was playing Cowboys and Indians with neighbor children. Then when he was a Boy Scout, he made a beaded and feathered headdress, learned the Tribe's dance, and performed in the American Royal Parade. 

Ron's career was working for his father at Leach Hurlburt Lumber Company, where he began by unloading boxcars of lumber, to becoming President and CEO before he retired. He also served as President of the Chamber of Commerce for Grandview MO and accomplished numerous forward-thinking projects. 

He celebrated 56 years together with his best friend and partner Frank Perez. Their favorite pastime was estate sales and finding treasures together. 

Ron is survived by four siblings, Carol, Marlene, Loretta & Dale; his daughter, Leslie; three grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren; five nieces; three nephews and sixteen great nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Kenneth and Virginia Nicely, a niece, Phyllis, and Brother-in-law, Dick. 

Ron's talents were many, but none were more important than his family. He was supportive, helpful and loving. 

In lieu of flowers, and to honor Ron's love of dogs, please consider a tax donation to: Senior Pets United c/o Zoe Kharasch, Founder of Senior Pets United. Tax-deductible donations can be made via PayPal at seniorpetsunited@gmail.com or Venmo @seniorpetsunited .