Ronald Lee Acuna Sr., “Sonny,” passed away at his home in Chanute on November 8, 2010.

Sonny was a very patriotic veteran. He served as a radio operator in WWII in the Aleutian Islands. During his time in the Army Air Corp as Staff Sgt. he was a golden gloves boxer. He also held an extra class license as a HAM operator.

He was a great humanitarian and a very religious man. His passion for preserving Native American culture and customs led him to be chosen as an Elder in 1995 by the Kansas Association for Native American Education. He originated and presided over Shawnee County Allied Tribes in Topeka and organized several programs throughout Kansas. He was honored by the governor as well as numerous organizations for sharing his knowledge. His vision was to preserve the Native American Heritage.

Ron retired from the Federal Aviation Agency as a radar technician in Garden City, Kansas.

Ron was born August 23, 1921 in Wichita, Kansas. He has 9 children, 34 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. His wife, Elna, preceded him in death as well as his parents, one brother, 3 sisters, a son and a granddaughter.

The viewing will be from 6 until 8 p.m. Sunday, November 14th, at the Penwell-Gabel Gibson Chapel in Chanute.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 15th, 1 p.m., at the Penwell-Gabel Gibson Chapel, 16 N. Forest, Chanute, KS. Graveside services will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorials in his name may be made to American Heart Association and may be left with the funeral home.

“To leave a special message for the family on-line, visit www.PenwellGabelChanute.com”