Ronald David "Ronnie" Estes

Ronald" Ronnie" David Estes, 81, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, May 7th, 2024 after a long battle with Parkinson's disease.
Ronnie was born the oldest of two children to L. Claude and Essie Estes on April 10, 1943, in Springfield, MO. He worked for over 30 years for BNSF (Frisco) Railroad, where he served as an electrician. In his free time he had a passion for restoring antique cars, and petroleum memorabilia.
Growing up in Springfield, Ronnie learned the value of hard work, hustling by working various jobs as a kid. While going to school, Ronnie was known for being ornery, telling stories of bringing water guns in a hollow book to school. While attending Hillcrest High School he met the love of his life, Marilyn Edmonson, in his study hall class where the two conspired by playing a music box in class, driving the teacher crazy. After high school, Ronnie joined the Missouri Army National Guard where he served as a machinist. When Ronnie left the service the two began dating and were married in 1966 at Hamlin Baptist Church,
where he was a life long member. In 1972 they welcomed their first child Shawna, and 11 years later in 1983 they welcomed their second child Kara into the world. In 1998, he welcomed his only grandchild, Emme Clark, into his life and was very proud of her and her accomplishments. He worked hard to make sure his family was taken care of and felt loved every day.
He was preceded in death by his dad L. Claude, his mom Essie, and his beloved dog Bear.
He is survived by his wife Marilyn Estes, his children, Shawna Clark, and Kara Estes, his granddaughter Emme Clark, his sister Susie (Earl Morgan), along with two nieces and their families, his dog Jack, and grand dog Buster. He was supported by his many friends including the ones he made at the weekly swap meet, and flea markets.
Visitation will be held on Monday May 13, 2024 at Greenlawn North at 12pm, with the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.