Ronald Robert Wilkens, Jr.
Ronald Robert Wilkens, Jr., affectionately known as Ronnie, passed away on January 8, 2024, at the age of 60, in Sullivan, Missouri. Ronnie was born on April 1, 1963, in St. Louis, Missouri, and was a proud graduate of Southwest High School.
After completing his education, Ronnie dedicated himself to the construction industry, where he worked for various companies. Most recently, Ronnie was employed by Martin and Sons Exteriors, where he took great pride in working alongside his son, Wyatt.
As a father, Ronnie raised his two sons, Daniel and Wyatt, in the Bourbon/Sullivan area, nurturing them with love and instilling in them the values of hard work and kindness. A true outdoorsman, he found peace and joy in hunting, fishing, and floating on the Meramec River. His passion for life extended to his love for riding his Harley and tinkering on cars and bikes. Ronnie was also always known to be the life of any party.
Ronnie was known for his generosity and loving nature—characteristics that defined his every action. Even with his stubborn and tough exterior, those closest to him knew the soft heart that lay within. His final days were spent creating cherished memories with his grandson, Wyatt Jr.
Ronnie is survived by his sons, Wyatt Wilkens and significant other, Sierra Johanning, of Bourbon, MO, and Daniel Wilkens of Festus, MO; one grandchild, Wyatt Wilkens, Jr. of Bourbon, MO; one sister, Nikki Bantle and husband, James of St. Louis, MO; one aunt, Ruth Ann Kuethe and husband, Wayne of Cuba, MO; two uncles, David Reiter of St. Louis, MO and Larry Reiter and wife, Debbie of Fenton, MO; one niece, Colleen Lujan and partner Joe Carlyon of Steelville, MO; great-nieces: Victoria, Presley, Jazmyn, and Karoline Lujan, and other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald and Patricia Wilkens; and one aunt, Lynn Reiter.
A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, January 15, 2024, from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan.
Friends may share condolences online with Ronnie’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com
Arrangements under the direction of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan, MO.