Ronald A. Cios

Ronald Anthony Cios, 81, of Bourbon, Missouri passed away unexpectedly at his home on Sunday, August 17, 2025. Born in Chicago, Illinois, on December 22, 1943, to his parents, Anthony and Alfreda (Stocki) Cios, the family moved to Bourbon Mo in 1948 where his parents purchased and operated the Bourbon Lodge, a Route 66 Landmark. He attended Saint Anthony Catholic School and graduated from Bourbon High School in 1962.

Ron proudly served his country during the Vietnam War in The United States Army. Upon his honorable discharge in August of 1969, he returned to his roots and began a career at Pea Ridge Mine. It was during this time that Ron's life was blessed his daughters, Sherri, Dawn, and Rhonda. He married, Maureen Smith, on November 5, 1976. With this union he welcomed three more daughters into his life: Maryanne, Karen, and Leslie.

The year 1977 marked a new chapter for Ron and his family as they moved to Utah where he was employed at Dugway Military Base, working in the Roads and Grounds Department. Ron's dedication to his work was only matched by his commitment to his family and friends.

Retirement in 2001 offered Ron the opportunity to return to Bourbon, the place he always considered home. It was here that he and Maureen settled to enjoy their golden years together until her passing in 2017.

Ron was a man of many interests. He had a deep appreciation for the great outdoors, reveling in hunting and fishing excursions that allowed him to both connect with nature as well as share this passion and skill with his children and grandchildren. His love for adventure often led him to explore various yard sales, auctions, and gun shows where he indulged in his passion for collecting an array of "stuff." Ron's collection was as eclectic as it was extensive, and he took great pleasure in the stories each item held.

Ron is survived by his daughters: Sherri Cios and wife Emily, of Camdenton, MO, and Rhonda (Cios) Miller and husband Kenny, of Leasburg, MO; stepdaughters: Leslie Anderson of Washington, MO and Maryanne Nelson and husband Kenneth of Tennessee; his sister, Judy Barnes and husband, Jim of Summersville, SC; and he also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Alfreda Cios; his wife, Maureen; two stepdaughters: Karen Easterley and Dawn Renick (Schmidt); and sisters, Gloria Redfield and Dolores Cairo.

A Gathering of family and friends will be held at a later date. Cremation has taken place.

Graveside services will be 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Bourbon with full military honors.

Friends may send their online condolences to Ron's family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan, MO.