Ronald Ray Drummond

Ronald Ray Drummond, 89, of Salina, Kansas, passed away Wednesday, June 19th, 2024. Ronald was born in Cottonwood Falls, Kansas on February 24th, 1935 to Velma Lucille (Pyle) and Lee Avon Drummond.

Ronald and Myrna were married August 18th, 1957 at the Strong City United Methodist Church in Strong City, Kansas.

Upon leaving the United States Army, Ron, Myrna, and baby Kim moved to Salina where Todd was born. Ron worked at Holsum Bakery as a route driver. Ron absolutely HATED working at the bakery and would say it was the worst job of his life! He then worked at Ashtons Grocery before joining Exline Inc. in research and development in 1969. Ron retired in 1997 after 28 years of dedicated service at Exline. He enjoyed being able to work in the field, meeting new people, and took pride in his accomplishments.

Ron was a founding member of Prairie Long Rifles and enjoyed the role of mountain man, and shooting black powder fire arms. In June of 1984, he began volunteer work at Ft. Larned National Historic Site. He volunteered for over 30 years and reveled in “playing the parts” of the fort’s history. He made many replica pieces for the fort, including; chairs, tables, ambulance, and coffins.

Kim loved her dad very much and has found she is a lot like him, (pray for Brent). On the other hand, she hated doing homework with him. He and Kim had a love for camping, he once carved a good luck camping charm for Kim. During that trip it began to rain, boats sunk, and tornados swirled in the sky. He eventually took it back and threw it in the fire.

Ron was a great dad, instilling an interest in family history, and setting an excellent example of hard work and self-sufficiency. Ron repaired many bikes and built countless play items over the years.

Ron was a wonderful grandpa and great grandpa. Ron was always playing and loving on the grandkids. He was eager to teach them how to do this or that in the workshop. The boy’s favorite was throwing a tomahawk at the big block of wood.

Ron was a dedicated husband, father, and grandpa. Ron worked hard to provide for the needs and wants of his family and will forever love them very much.

Survivors include his wife, Myrna; daughter, Kimberly Dykes (Brent), of Salina, Kansas; grandson, Jimmy Furgison (Lezlie); granddaughter, Teasha; and 8 great grandchildren.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents, sister, Leola Free; and son, Todd Drummond.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM, Wednesday, June 26th at Carlson-Geisendorf Funeral Home with Pastor Kirk Sticker officiating.

Donations may be made to the Salina Rescue Mission, Gideons International, or The Donor’s Choice, in care of the funeral home.