Ronald D. Kunzelman – January 4, 2025

Ronald D. Kunzelman, age 86, passed away on January 4, 2025. He was born December 1, 1938. Ron received his bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Missouri. Following graduation, he entered the Air Force through ROTC. As a personnel officer, Ron was stationed in Colorado Springs where he met his first wife. Ron was reassigned to Iceland where he spent one year before being discharged from the service. He then joined his father at Kunzelman Bros. jewelry business in St. Louis. Ron became a Certified Gemologist and purchased the business from his father in 1974.  He successfully continued the business until retirement in 1996, at which time he sold the business to his son and moved to Colorado Springs.

Ron is survived by his wife, Mary, and four children by his previous marriage: Joseph Kunzelman (Katie) of Gilbert, Arizona; Sonja (Karvel) Kofoed of Greenwood, Missouri; Chris Kunzelman of Puerto Rico; and Suzanne (Eric) Lapine of Camdenton, Missouri. He worked tirelessly to provide for his children and was immensely proud of each of them along with 17 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. He is also survived by Mary’s children and grandchildren: Susan, Brandon, Mason and Connor Hill of Erie, Colorado; and Tim Bayers of West Dover, Vermont. Ron was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Bernice Kunzelman, and his siblings, Judith Wind and Kevin Kunzelman.

While stationed in Colorado Springs, Ron discovered skiing in the Colorado mountains. He and his family spent many memorable times on the slopes of Winter Park. Ron was a devoted member of Pi Kappa Alpha while attending Mizzou and remained involved throughout his lifetime. Ron’s love of travel took him to countless destinations in the U.S. but also Iceland, England, Scotland, Ireland, Norway, and Finland. Mary and Ron cruised to the Baltic, Norway, Ireland, Alaska, and the Caribbean. For many years following their marriage, they wintered in Sun Lakes, Arizona. Ron spent countless hours playing golf and was fortunate to play courses in Ireland several times. He enjoyed bridge, Mexican Train, lunches out, biking, and reading. Ron cared deeply about his country and his name could often be found following a letter to the editor of the local newspaper or the WSJ, our president, governor, senator or congressman.

No services are planned. The Kunzelman family deeply appreciates the care provided by Abode Hospice and Springs Ranch Memory Care while Ron was in their care. We will miss the twinkle in his green Irish eyes and mourn his loss, but we are grateful for the many years he lived. Consider donating in Ron’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association, 455 Sherman St., Suite 500, Denver, Colorado 80203 or to the National Sports Center for the Disabled, P.O. Box 1290, Winter Park, Colorado 80482.