OTTAWA, Kan. – Ronald Lee Knight, a devoted family man, lifelong farmer, and respected community member, passed away peacefully March 30, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Born Aug. 8, 1943, in Quenemo, Kan., Ronald’s life was marked by dedication, hard work, and an enduring commitment to those he cared about. Ron was the beloved son of Matthew Milan and Letha Mae (Rose) Knight.
He grew up in Quenemo, Kan., and graduated from Quenemo High School with the class of 1961. During his school years, he proudly contributed to the 1960 state basketball championship team, an accomplishment that remained one of his proudest throughout his lifetime.
His career was distinguished by more than four decades of service as a supervisor at the Dupont Cellophane Manufacturing Plant, a testament to his steadfast work ethic and leadership. Even after retiring from this long tenure, Ron continued to lend his expertise as a part-time consultant for three years. He balanced these pursuits with a second job cutting firewood, and most importantly, he was a lifelong farmer raising cattle – a passion that connected him deeply to the land and his community.
On April 25, 1987, Ron married Connie Sue Berberich, in Osage County, and together they built a rich life surrounded by family. His hobbies reflected his love for the outdoors: He enjoyed hunting and fishing, and was an avid follower of both the KU and K-State basketball and football teams, demonstrating his spirited Kansas roots.
Ron is survived by his devoted wife; sons, R. Bradley “Brad” Knight (Pam), Todd Knight and Jacob Knight; daughters, Rhonda Sylvia (Mark) and Rochelle Knight; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren who celebrated his life; sisters, Debra Harris (Larry), Kaye Counts, Joyce Long, Cheryl Weiss (Mike); and sisters-in-law, Shirley Knight and Linda Knight.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Anna Rose Barber, Harvey Knight, and Bob Knight.
Ronald’s legacy is one of loyalty, resilience, and profound love for his family and community. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him, as a man who embraced life fully and with kind-hearted strength.
Cremation is planned with no services scheduled at this time.
Condolences can be left at dengelmortuary.com.
