Ronald Zielke

Ronald Eugene Zielke was a faithful and loving husband, a gifted educator, a devoted community member, and a warm source of encouragement to those around him.

Ron was born in Newton, KS on June 22, 1934 to Arnold and Elsie Zielke.

As a young man, Ron worked as a delivery boy for the local pharmacy, making deliveries on his bicycle all around Newton. Later on he worked at Gilmore's Clothing Store, where he gained an appreciation for dressing sharply.

Ron graduated from Newton High School and earned a Bachelor's of Science degree in Industrial Arts Education from Bethel College and a Master of Science degree from Emporia State University.

On September 20, 1957, Ron married Theresa Schwartz in Pretty Prairie, Kansas. Their marriage reflected the faithfulness and love that defined his life. They left immediately for Ron’s military assignment at Fort Richie Maryland where he proudly served in the United States Army as a Cryptologist with top security clearance.

Ron dedicated his career to education, teaching industrial arts at Hesston Middle School, and High School. In 1970 he was honored as Outstanding Industrial Arts Teacher in the state of Kansas. He was not afraid to read the manual to figure out how to do something and did so on many occasions as the technology revolution expanded around him. He went on to write the first robotics program in the state of Kansas. One of his favorite classes was the CVEP class for high school seniors where he taught professional and leadership skills for the workplace. Ron retired from teaching in 1994 having served the Hesston USD 460 for 32 years.

His faith and church community were central to his life. In 1987 Ron and Theresa were a part of the core founding group that established Grace Community Church in Newton, KS. Ron later went on to serve the congregation as an elder for many years. Ron was dedicated to leading his family spiritually and faithfully prayed for them.

Ron enjoyed being an independent business owner. He and Theresa delighted in traveling together and focused much of their lives on uplifting and investing in those around them.

A master craftsman, Ron took great joy in passing his passion down to his children and grandchildren. He was precise and careful in everything he did, often measuring three times before making a cut. For Ron, the process was every bit as rewarding as the finished product.

Ron will be remembered for his faith, kindness, encouragement, craftsmanship, and dedication to his family and others. His welcoming nature made people feel comfortable in his presence, and his thoughtful words helped them recognize the best in themselves. Above all, he will be remembered as a faithful and loving husband whose life made a lasting difference in his family, school, church, and community.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Grace Community Church and left with Petersen Funeral Home, Newton, Kansas.