Ronald "Ron" J. Peterson

Ronald "Ron" J. Peterson, 91, of Lenexa, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, February 23, 2025. He was born on October 24, 1933 in Omaha, Nebraska to Allen and Ethel (Mattes) Peterson. 

Ron graduated from Central High School in Omaha and then worked for Western Electric. After serving in the Navy, he graduated from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where he was a member of the Delta Sigma Pi fraternity.

He met Jeanie on a blind date, which was the beginning of almost 67 wonderful years of marriage.

After working for Sears Roebuck & Company, Ron and Jeanie opened their first A&W Restaurant in Leavenworth, Kansas, later expanding to a second restaurant in Overland Park, and a third in Hutchinson. Ron attributed so much of his business success to his employees, which included many teenagers. In turn, they were dedicated to him.

They retired to Bella Vista, AR in 1991, where they both enjoyed playing golf several times a week. Ron not only shot 4 holes-in-one, but also shot 2 eagles in one 9-hole round! He was also an active member of the Bentonville/Bella Vista Lion’s Club.

Faith and family were such an important part of Ron’s life. Family gatherings were always a highlight in his life.

Ron and Jeanie returned to Kansas City (Lenexa) in July 2024 to be closer to family.

Ron is survived by his wife, Carolyn (Jeanie) Peterson, daughter, Kathy (Marco) Segura, son, Steve (Elizabeth) Peterson, son-in-law Michael Kulik, 8 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Cheryl Kulik, as well as his sister Joan Crellin and brother Calvin.

A celebration of life will be held on April 26, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Community Covenant Church, 15700 W. 87th Parkway, Lenexa, Kansas 66219.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions in Ron’s memory be made to the charity of your choice.