Ronald Carnes

Ronald Dean Carnes, 76, of Olathe, passed away on September 13, 2024, at Stratford Commons Rehabilitation & Health Care Center, after a brief stay at the conclusion of his esophageal cancer diagnosis. 

He was born on September 15, 1947, to William and Fern (Salmon) Carnes in Ontario, CA. Growing up, Ron traveled extensively across the country as his father’s job resulted in frequent relocation. Settling in Knob Noster, MO, this is where Ron graduated from high school and met his wife of 58 years, Janis Carnes. They were married September 3rd, 1966. 

Ron worked various jobs, including 40+ years as a school bus driver for the Knob Noster School District, which he enjoyed throughout the years. In 1988, he joined in a partnership with Weldon Brady, where they constructed the Whiteman Inn, timed with the arrival of the B2 Stealth Bomber at Whiteman Air Force Base. After the success of that project, they built their second hotel, Holiday Inn Express, in nearby Warrensburg, MO in 1996. Ron was a Type 1 diabetic diagnosed at age 12, and as a result, battled diabetes his entire life. In 1998, Ron was fortunate enough to receive a kidney/pancreas transplant that allowed him to retire in good health, whereby he was able to fulfill his desire to watch his grandchildren grow up. This led him to retire in Olathe, KS.

During retirement, he was able to not only enjoy watching many sports events of his grandchildren, but also join MO-KAN Pet Partners, where he and his therapy dog, Zack, engaged in 700+ visits to area hospitals, schools, senior care facilities, and the Ronald McDonald House of Kansas City. 

Ronald is survived by his loving wife, Janis, son Bill Carnes and wife Kelly of Olathe KS, son Ron Carnes, of Olathe, KS, two grandchildren, Jackson and Max Carnes of Olathe, KS, and several nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Rick Carnes.

Private visitation will be held at Penwell-Gabel Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, Olathe, Kansas. Ron’s final resting place will be Pleasant Valley Cemetery in Overland Park, KS. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to MO-KAN Pet Partners. Donations can be made online using the link below. 

To share a memory of Ron or leave a special message for his family, visit the guest book below.