Ronald Earl Neunlist, 79, of Fredericksburg, Virginia passed away on December 31, 2024. He was born in Olney, Illinois on February 5, 1945, to the late Russell and Mary Neunlist.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Mary McGlothin; sons Ron and Bret Neunlist; and niece Amanda Newman.

He is survived by his son, Matthew Neunlist of Charlotte, NC; sisters Jane LeMay and Ruth Ann Conn of Louisville, KY; former wife Sharon Neunlist of Olney, IL; former wife Margaret Neunlist; stepson Jake Derrow of Fredericksburg, VA; three granddaughters; many nieces and nephews who loved to laugh at his sometimes-exaggerated stories; and finally, his beloved mule, Happy.

In 1965 Ron was drafted to the Army during the Vietnam War. He served our great nation for two years receiving a Good Conduct Medal. After an honorable discharge he spent his younger years in the oil industry working on drilling rigs in Illinois, Ohio, Tennessee and Kentucky. He then transitioned into the natural gas distribution industry, laying the foundation for many great cities to develop including Pittsburgh, PA, the DC area, and the Northern Virginia area. Ron was beyond hard working and dedicated, passing on his strong work ethic to the many that joined his team over the years.

He left a lasting impact on everyone who worked alongside him, including his sons. Although known for his hard exterior, his soft spot was wanting to help those during troubling times in their lives, often giving second chances. In his free time, Ron loved woodworking, often making elaborate gifts for his friends and family. He also spent many hours on his farm in Virginia caring for dogs, in particular Jack Russell Terriers, and adopting any stray cat that came to his property. Every creature had a home with Ron.

Ron did not wish to have a service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local animal rescue or to Central Virginia Horse Rescue in his honor.

Covenant Funeral Service, Fredericksburg, VA