Obituary of Ronald Paul Burkle

Ronald P. Burkle, 66, of, Dyersville passed away at his home after a day of Thanksgiving with his family. Visitation will be held from 2 – 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, 2015, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville where a parish vigil service will be held at 2 p.m., a Knights of Columbus Rosary will be recited at 5 p.m., and an American Legion Service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue Saturday from 9 – 10 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, 2015, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Jeffrey Dole will officiate. Military Honors will be accorded by American Legion Post 137. Ron was born July 28, 1949, in Dyersville the son of George and Thelma (Maiers) Burkle. He is the father of four children with Shirley (Honkomp) Pirc and has worked at Klostermann Brothers Feed for 45 years. In the words of his employer, “They will never make another Ronnie Burkle” with reference to his outstanding work ethic. Ron was a member of the American Legion Post 137, the Knights of Columbus Council 1734, and has served as an usher at St. Francis Xavier Basilica for many years. Ron was an amazing father and grandfather, often taking the time out of his busy schedule to be a coach and fan for his children and grandchildren. He was an avid bowler, having three 300 games to his credit, and enjoyed softball, golf and playing cards. Survivors include his children: Cheryl (Jeff) Geistkemper of Solon, Iowa, Cory (Heidi) Burkle of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Carrie (Kevin) McDermott of Dyersville, Craig (Jess) Burkle of Davenport, Iowa; 9 grandchildren: Lauren and Ryan Geistkemper, Gabe and Reid Burkle, Connor, Paige and Hannah McDermott, and Brady and Hadley Burkle; siblings: David Burkle of Dyersville, Ken (Julie) Burkle of Manchester, Susan (Gary) Klostermann of Manchester, Cynthia (Craig) Crock of Marion. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Thelma Burkle. A memorial fund has been established in Ron’s memory. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramerfuneral.com.