Ronnie (Ron) Ellison Duerksen passed from this life unexpectedly into the arms of Jesus Saturday, May 11th at St. Francis Hospital Tulsa surrounded by his loving wife (Andrea), bonus son (Lance), and daughter-in-law (Stephanie) at the age of 80.

Ron was born on October 18th, 1943 to Pairlee Duerksen and Elliott (Slim) Duerksen at his home in Corn, Oklahoma, Northeast of Cordell, Ok. When Ron was in fourth grade his family moved to Valley Center, Kansas. During summers while attending High School, Ron "went north with the harvest". He absolutely loved farming and getting to travel with "the group", always driving the combine harvester. He loved his horses and cow (Roanie) and road horseback in many parades with his Dad on one of his favorite horses; David.

After graduating from Valley Center High School in 1961, Ron went straight into the Navy with 2 of his High School buddies into what they called Kiddie Cruisers at the young age of 17. Ron said he was going to travel the world and that he did. Stationed out of Sand Diego he was at sea for 6-8 months, back to base, then back out to sea. He served on the USS Thomaston and the USS Tortuga. Ron graduated from Fire Technicians School in 1962. Ron had many interesting stories about his Navy years. One of the most interesting was when President John F. Kennedy was shot. They had to turn the ship around and head for Cuba.

After bravely serving his country in the Navy, Ron transitioned to civilian life and devoted almost 25 years to his work in aluminum can manufacturing at Rexam (American National Can). His dedication and expertise were instrumental in shaping the industry and earning the respect of colleagues and peers.

But beyond his professional achievements, Ron found his greatest joy in the embrace of his beloved spouse, Andrea, with whom he shared a bond of unwavering love and companionship for almost 23 years. Their union was a testament to the enduring power of love and partnership. As a friend used to say regarding their relationship they were "couple goals".

Ron, or Pa Pa as most called him, cherished his family above all else, finding solace and purpose in the laughter of his children, the warmth of his grandchildren, and the unconditional love of his faithful dogs.

In his retirement years, Ron enjoyed quiet moments by the sea, reminiscing about his days at sea and finding peace in the beauty of nature. He loved working with plants and flowers, exercised daily while playing his Southern Rock music. He played Santa Claus for the Grandkids every Christmas Eve. Ron was a great dancer, his favorite color was brown, he loved traveling the country on his Honda Goldwing Trike and cruising, he was a proud Veteran, and he loved the Lord. He leaves behind a legacy of courage, kindness, and love that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Though he may no longer walk among us, Ron's spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him. May he rest in eternal peace, watching over his beloved Andrea and his cherished family from above.

Ron is survived by his wife, Andrea, his son Clayton and wife Colette, his bonus son Lance Petitt and wife Stephanie, Grandchildren; Noa Sloan and husband Tyler, Aiden Petitt, Abby Petitt, Asa, Lily, Bryce, and Cole Duerksen, Kayleigh Duerksen, and his 3 fur kids Rain, Lola, and Lucy who miss him dearly.

Ron is preceded in death by his Mother Pairlee Duerksen, Father Elliott Duerksen, 2 sons; Justin Duerksen, Shawn Duerksen, and one Bonus daughter Lara Petitt.

~Fair Winds and Following Seas~

Memorial Service will be 1:00 P.M., Friday, May 17, 2024 at Moore's Southlawn Chapel, 9350 E. 51st, Tulsa, OK. Moore's Southlawn 918-663-2233