Ronald Kirton

Ronald “Ronny” David Kirton was born December 16, 1952 to Clell and Irene Kirton in Wessington Springs, South Dakota the youngest of five children.  He grew up on a farm outside of Wessington Springs and attended a small country school with his family through the 8^th grade.  As a child, he enjoyed fishing and working on the farm, as well as spending time with his friends and family.  He also had a lifetime interest in trains.  He always had a lot of friends.  After completing 8^th grade, Ronny stayed home to work on the farm.  He later moved to Sioux Falls, South Dakota to work as a custodian for Augustana College as well as washing cars.  After several years at Augustana, Ronny took a job working on a farm near Armor, South Dakota.  He later moved to Huron, South Dakota, where he continued doing custodial work.  While in Huron, he met Donna Jones and began a close, long-term friendship with her.  Ronny later moved to Slayton, Minnesota to be close to family and eventually settled in Pipestone, Minnesota.  On March 3, 2023, Ronny passed away peacefully in his home at the age of 70 years, 3 months, and 17 days.

Ronny is survived by his sister, Cathy Hemenway (special friend Lawrence Roeder) of Slayton, and his long-term friend and partner, Donna Jones.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Clell and Irene, as well as his siblings Corine, Rose, and Jim.  Blessed be his memory.