Ronald Eugene Zile, age 87, passed away on February 8, 2026, in Springfield, Missouri.

"Ronnie" Zile was born on September 14, 1938, in Lyons, Kansas, to Walter and Icel Zile.

Ron graduated from Emporia State University in 1963. He went on to build a long and successful career with Southwestern Bell, where he worked for 25 years and rose to the position of Division Level Manager.

In January of 1983, Ron married Mary McIntyre, with whom he shared much laughter and love!

Ron was an avid bass fisherman and loved a good game of gin rummy. He also had a passion for horse racing. Known for his strong comedic wit, Ron could keep a room laughing. A little-known fact about him - he was a tremendous dancer!

He was a remarkably diverse and intelligent man. Ron had the rare ability to speak with anyone. He would verbally spar with the most learned in the room, then, turn on a dime and genuinely connect with a good old boy, a child, or the elderly. He made people feel seen, heard, and valued.

Ron will be greatly missed. He was a truly unique man.

He is survived by his first wife, Darlene Perrigue, and his present wife, Mary McIntyre; his eldest daughter, Dana Shrader and her husband, Lonnie Shrader; and his second daughter, Taige Haines and her husband, Tim Haines.

He is also survived by his grandchildren: Justin Keach and his wife Brianna Keach, along with their beautiful daughter, Addie Keach; Ethan Haines; Kylie Keach; Hannah Haines and her fiancé Leslie Helmick. He is also survived by a cute little Benji type dog named Jojo.

The rich legacy of Ronnie Zile will live on! We are all much richer, having known him. May our lives reflect his influence.

Memorial Service will be held Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 11:00 AM in Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home at 1947 E. Seminole, Springfield, MO 65804.