Marina
The city of Emporia, Kansas, is mourning the loss of a dedicated public servant, Ron Childers, who passed away at the age of 76 on April 29 at his rural Allen home.
A man of resilience, commitment, and service, Childers leaves behind a rich legacy that shaped the city’s infrastructure and public service landscape for decades.
A Career Marked by Service and Dedication
Ron Childers devoted nearly 30 years of his life to Emporia’s Public Works Department, retiring in 2014 after a career that left a lasting imprint on the city.
Prior to his tenure in public service, Childers spent 18 years at Sauder Tank, where he developed a strong foundation in mechanical and operational systems that later guided his decisions and innovations in city infrastructure.
He was known among colleagues and city residents for his hands-on leadership, deep understanding of city operations, and unwavering dedication to public improvement projects.
Whether it was managing road maintenance, water systems, or emergency response planning, Childers consistently placed the needs of the community at the forefront of his mission.
A Life of Broader Service: Military and Conservation
Beyond his professional duties, Ron Childers was a proud U.S. Army veteran, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to serving his country. His military background instilled discipline, leadership, and integrity—qualities that carried through to his civilian roles.
He was also an active member of the Ball-McColm American Legion Post 5, where he worked with fellow veterans to support community programs and patriotic events. Moreover, Childers was a passionate outdoorsman and conservationist.
He was involved in organizations like Quail Unlimited and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, both of which focus on preserving wildlife habitats and promoting sustainable hunting practices.
Funeral and Visitation Details
Cremation is planned for Ron Childers, in keeping with his wishes. A public visitation will be held on May 13 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home in Emporia.
A private memorial service will be scheduled at a later date to allow family and close friends to pay their respects in an intimate setting.
His passing comes just a day before another major loss to the city—former Emporia Police Chief Scott Cronk, who passed away on April 30. Cronk’s visitation will take place at 1 p.m. on Wednesday at White Auditorium, followed by a 2 p.m. service and burial at Sacred Heart Cemetery.
Quick Facts – Ron Childers’ Life and Service
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Ron Childers |
| Age at Passing | 76 |
| Date of Death | April 29, 2025 |
| Residence | Rural Allen, Kansas |
| Career Highlights | 30 years as Emporia Public Works Director |
| Previous Employment | 18 years at Sauder Tank |
| Military Service | U.S. Army Veteran |
| Veterans Organization | Ball-McColm American Legion Post 5 |
| Community Involvement | Quail Unlimited, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation |
| Visitation | May 13, 6–7 p.m., Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home |
| Cremation | Planned |
| Private Service | To be held later |
Legacy of Leadership in Emporia
Ron Childers will be remembered not just for his professional accomplishments, but for his quiet strength and enduring contributions to Emporia’s progress.
Under his leadership, the Public Works Department navigated numerous challenges, including natural disasters and infrastructure upgrades, ensuring that essential city services ran smoothly for thousands of residents.
His approach was always community-first, and his long-standing dedication helped Emporia grow into the resilient city it is today. Former colleagues recall him as “steadfast,” “knowledgeable,” and “a man of his word”—attributes that are increasingly rare and deeply valued in public service.
The passing of Ron Childers marks the end of an era for the Emporia community. As the city reflects on his decades of service, military commitment, and love for conservation, his legacy remains firmly rooted in the streets he helped maintain, the veterans he stood beside, and the wildlife he cherished.
His life serves as a reminder that impactful service doesn’t always happen in the spotlight—but through years of steadfast dedication and care for the people and land one calls home.