Ronald Eugene Burnes, 78

Ronald Eugene Burnes, 78, of Bigfork, returned to his heavenly father on Jan. 25, 2022, after suffering a massive stroke.

Ron was born to Ruth and William Burnes in Napa, California on Nov. 1, 1943. He grew up there and attended school there.

After attending college Ron joined the Marines. From there he went into the Army where he joined the Special Forces. During that time he was stationed various places, including Okinawa and Panama. After seven years with the Special Forces he became a trainer for the Army Reserve. Ron retired from the military in 2002.

Ron married Linda Johnson from 1967 until 1999 and they had 11 children. They lived in Napa, California, Grass Valley, California, and Heber, Utah. In 2013 Ron moved to Bigfork. Ron had been active in his church community at Crossroads Christian Fellowship.

After and during a total of 27 years in the military, Ron became The Freeze Dry Guy where he helped folks prepare by selling freeze-dried foods and other needed items.

Ron is survived by his great love, Elaine, his children Christine, Julie, Jennifer, Ronald, James, Sarah, Ruth, John, Lori, Michael, many beloved grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Ron was preceded in death by his sister Sandra Kay on Aug. 22, 1946, and his son William on March 13, 2006.

Funeral services are at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home at 1890 Hwy. 93 North in Kalispell on Wednesday, Feb. 2, at 1 p.m.