Ronald Keith Harlow, 72, of Kearney, Mo., passed away at home on Sunday, July 19, 2020 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by love from his family just as he was in life.
Ronald “Ronnie” was born to Van and Virginia Harlow on October 22, 1947 and was raised in Gallatin, Mo. There he attended school excelling in both basketball and football.
After school he went to work for General Motors where he stayed on for 37.7 years before retiring in 2005. He made many close friends throughout those years and acquired many skills, most famously for the harmonica which he played with great joy if you got him on the right occasion. He had a deep love for blues music and even traveled annually to the King Biscuit Blues Festival in Mississippi for many years.
He was a devoted grandfather, beloved brother-in-law and uncle, loving husband, and the best dad.
He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Sandra; brother, James Harlow (Gail) of Kansas City; two daughters, Christi Harlow of Kearney and Beth Harlow (Joel) of Kansas City; five grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; as well as four sisters-in-law, two brothers-in-law, and many nieces and nephews that thought the world of him.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Van and Virginia Harlow of Gallatin; brother, Terrance Harlow of Kearney; paternal grandparents, Luther and Murl Harlow; and maternal grandparents, Otis and Gladys Grogg.
A celebration of life service will be held 3:00 p.m., Saturday, May 8, 2021 at Claybrook Park, Kearney, MO.
Kansas City Hospice provided such personal care and support to Ron and his family, so in lieu of flowers they ask that donations be made on his behalf to:
KC Hospice
1500 Meadow Lake Parkway/Suite 200
Kansas City, MO 64111
Arrangements in care of Fry-Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Kearney.
Our Sincere Condolences
I was deeply saddened to hear of Ronnie’s passing. Ron and I attended junior college together at Trenton, starting the fall of 65. We had some good laughs and had a hard time in keeping with the studying.
Ed Leonard
Many memories growing up around Ronnie. His daughter was one of my best friends. I’ll never forget his whimsical sense of humor. I truly enjoyed the occasional harmonica jams I was fortunate to hear. God bless the family.
Sara
Sondra and family,
My sincerest condolences for your loss of this loved one. Wow! 53 years of marriage. I am sure that a lot of those years can be credited to the sense of humor Ron displayed, along with a great deal of patience and love shown him by his wife and family. It was my privilege to grow up knowing Van & Ginny, Red & Murl, Otis & Gladys, and the Harlow boys: Ron, Terry, and my best friend Jim. What special old memories we share! May the Lord God provide comfort and strength to the Harlow family as you go forward from this loss.
Frank Tolen
Sending prayers for Ron and the family. It’s always sad to hear of family passing.
R.I.P.
Rick Baker
