Ronald William Waggener, 88, a resident of Lee’s Summit, MO passed away peacefully Monday, February 6, 2023 at his home. He was born December 4, 1934 to Charles Jr. and Mildred (Smith) Waggener in Springfield, MO.
Ronald served his country proudly in the United States Marine Corp as a Captain. He was united in marriage to Paula Harbor on February 9, 1957 in Kansas City, MO. Ronald spent over 40 years in the advertising and marketing business. He worked for NW Ayer and Tension Envelope before branching out to start Waggener and Associates. He later started Waggener Outdoor and built many of the 8 Sheet outdoor boards in Warrensburg before retirement.
Later in life Ron devoted his time and energy to youth sports building baseball fields and starting the Independence Track Club (ITC). He was a tough hard coach that wanted the best for all those he coached. He began coaching the Luff Lions giving the elementary school its nickname. The girls’ basketball team that included his daughter and many of his athletes went on to win multiple state titles in basketball. He also coached his son on the Luff Lions boys’ team. He later coached the track team at William Jewel College. In the spring of 1980, Jewell added women’s track & field to the sports program. The team was formed through the initiative of Sally Merrell and Jill Adams. Ron Waggener became the coach.
In leu of flowers Ron would like everyone to do 10x440s at pace with a 110 rest in between. After that you will never forget him!
Survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Paula Waggener of Lee’s Summit, MO, whose anniversary is February 9; son, Richard Waggener of Lee’s Summit, MO; Penny Waggener of Boulder, CO; granddaughter, Carley Waggener; brother, Robert Waggener and wife Nancy of Lynchburg, VA. Ronald is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Mildred Waggener.
Ronald will be cremated per his wishes. A committal service with full military honors will be held at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville, MO. Arrangements have been entrusted to Meyers Funeral Chapel in Blue Springs. Memories of Ronald and words of comfort for his family may be shared at meyersfuneralchapel.com.
“TO HONOR A VETERAN”
Thank you so much Ronald for serving our country. Because of your service to our country you have given each and everyone of us are freedom.
God bless you for taking great care of our country and for all the sacrifices you have made for our country for me and for all of us.