Ronald Eldred Burtness
Ronald Eldred Burtness, 70, of Hibbing, passed away on March 28, 2015.
Ron was born on May 25, 1944 in Cook to Eldred and Julia (Anthony) Burtness. After receiving education and care in Cambridge and Brainerd, Ron moved to Hibbing where he enjoyed working at the Range Center doing a variety of jobs. He participated in the Range Center's SoHo Arts program where his art was displayed and sold. Ron enjoyed watching the Minnesota Twins play baseball. He loved music, especially Elvis Presley.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents and great-niece Ella Bea McKenzie (Corey and Mandy).
He is survived by three sisters Julie (David) Cosmini of Manchester, CT; Jeanne (Peter) Luzaich of Marshfield, MO; and Kathy (Neil) McKenzie of Hastings, MN; nine nieces and nephews: Jeremy Luzaich, Jennifer (Todd) Cosmini Gibson, Joni (Ted)Luzaich Mashburn, Ryan (Lora) Cosmini, Corey (Mandy)McKenzie, Douglas (Tanya) Cosmini, Brigette (Adam) McKenzie Pettit, Eric Cosmini, and Erica McKenzie; eleven great nieces and nephews; Aunt Betty Reider, Uncle Archie Thurman, many special cousins and friends. The family wishes to express their gratitude to his "family" at Aspenwood who gave him the love and care he needed for the last 15 years. Grace Isaacson, his long-time social worker, provided loving guidance to help him maintain a joyful, healthy life.
"Down Syndrome, it doesn't mean I'm down, it means I help people who are feeling down. My smiles are contagious, my laugh is medicine for the heart, my hugs are heavenly, and my heart itself is pure gold." Anonymous
Funeral services were held Saturday, April 25, 2015 at Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook for immediate family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent in Ron's name to Aspenwood or Range Center at 1820 E. 39th St; Hibbing, MN 55746. To sign the online guest book or send a condolence to the family, go to: www.mlakerfuneralhome.com