Ronald Ellsbury

Ellsbury, Ronald Rapp, 91, of Columbia,MO, formerly of Wichita Kansas, passed away May 3, 2006, at Lenoir Healthcare Center in Columbia, Missouri. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am, Monday, May 8 at the East Heights United Methodist Church chapel in Wichita Kansas. A memorial service will also be held at the Lenoir Epple Chapel in Columbia Missouri at 3:00 pm, Friday, May 12. Ronnie was born November 1, 1914 in Groton, South Dakota to James and Hazel Ellsbury. He married Clarice Shank on November 14, 1940 and she survives. Following graduation from Groton High School, Ronnie moved to Wichita, Kansas where he attended Wichita University and graduated with a bachelors degree in Geology. After completing his studies, Ronnie worked as an X-ray technician at St. Francis Hospital in Wichita. He then served in the 51st Evacuation Hospital, 7th Army, in World War II, earning the rank of Major. He was awarded the Bronze Star “for meritorious service in direct support of combat operations in France and Germany.” Upon his discharge from the Army, he was employed as a scheduler for Boeing Aircraft in Wichita, until his retirement in 1976. Ronnie was active in the Masons and Shriners Club in Wichita. He also enjoyed peaceful times with friends and family at his farm outside Wichita and at Table Rock Lake in Missouri. Along with his wife, survivors include his daughter Ann Alberty and husband Blaine of Columbia, Missouri; grandchildren Robin Ward and husband Jim of Leawood, Kansas; Jennifer Welner and husband Justin of Wichita, Kansas; J. Darran Alberty and wife Tanya of Columbia; Kelly Della Rocca and husband Greg of Columbia; and Ronald “Patrick” Alberty of New York City, NY. 10 great grandchildren also survive him. A son, James S. Ellsbury, and a grandson, Devin J. Ellsbury, preceded him in death. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to LSS Lenoir Woods Benevolent Care Fund, c/o Gary Long, 3700 Lenoir St., Columbia, MO, 65201, or the American Cancer Society. Downing Lahey Mortuary East.