Ronald J. Burch
Ronald J. Burch
Ronald J. Burch
November 14, 1931 – August 10, 2013
Oskaloosa, Iowa | Age 81
Ronald J. Burch, 81, of Oskaloosa died Saturday, August 10, 2013 at the Griffon Nursing Center in Knoxville.
Ron was born Saturday, November 14, 1931 in Iowa City, the son of Walter and Lolletta Doller Burch, Sr. He graduated from Oskaloosa High School. In 1950, Ron joined the Marines and served during the Korean Conflict. Following his discharge in 1954, Ron worked for Merle Boughton and Herman Green as a heavy equipment operator. In the 1970’s he started R.J. Burch Excavating and operated it until his retirement in the early 90’s.
On April 11, 1976, Ron was united in marriage to Marilyn J. Sparks at Oskaloosa and she died April 2, 2002.
In retirement he enjoyed delivering the Oskaloosa Herald and driving truck for unfinished furniture. He also loved bowling, camping, boating, waterskiing and playing cards. He was a Hawkeye fan and traveled one year to see them play at the Rose Bowl.
Ron is survived by his two sons: Joe (& Sally) Burch of Russell, Iowa and Jeffrey (& Lila) Burch of Kirkville, Iowa; 5 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; and a brother: Walter (& Marguerite) Burch of Oskaloosa.
He was preceded in death by his wife and parents.
Graveside services will be held Thursday, August 15, 2013 at 1 P.M. at Forest Cemetery in Oskaloosa with Reverend Jeff Belger officiating.
As was his wish his body has been cremated.
Visitation with the family present will be held at the Bates Funeral Chapel from 12 noon until a procession is formed at 12:45 P.M. for those wishing to go to the cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Ronald J. Burch Memorial Fund.
