Ronald “Ron” Pete Gariglietti, affectionately known as “Ronnie” to his family, 68, of Pittsburg, Kansas, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Ron was born on Nov. 25, 1957, in Pittsburg, Kansas, to John Antone Gariglietti and Ruth Beatrice (Boatright) Gariglietti.
Much of Ron’s childhood was spent at John’s Sports Center, the well-known Pittsburg business founded, owned, and operated by his parents. He worked alongside his brothers, John and Steve where the family store became an important part of his life and a lasting part of the community. He continued working alongside his brother Steve before pursuing his passion for education. Ron also cherished his childhood visits to Italy with his parents and the many family gatherings and traditions that celebrated his Italian heritage.
Ron graduated from Pittsburg High School in 1976 and went on to attend Pittsburg State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1979. During his college years, he became a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, forming lifelong friendships and a brotherhood he cherished.
With a deep passion for learning, Ron continued his education, earning his master’s degree in Geospatial Sciences from Missouri State University. He later pursued his PhD at Kansas State University.
Ron spent many years teaching at the college level, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for education with his students. A lifelong learner, his curiosity extended far beyond the classroom.
Ron was a kind and compassionate man with a free spirit, a curious mind, and a wonderful sense of humor. He had a playful, mischievous side and a way of finding humor in everyday moments that those closest to him knew and loved.
He found joy in life’s simple pleasures, whether watching birds, planting flowers, collecting coins, or exploring his interests in geography and environmental science. His appreciation for nature and fascination with the world around him reflected his gentle spirit and endless curiosity.
Above all, Ron was immensely proud of his four daughters and his grandchildren. Spending time with his family brought him tremendous happiness, and the love he had for them was unwavering.
Ron is survived by his four daughters, Toni Gariglietti-Hudson and her husband, Todd, of Pittsburg, Kansas; Ronni Wayman and her husband, Jay, of Skiatook, Oklahoma; Jacki Gariglietti of Frontenac, Kansas; and Jeri Williams and her husband, Ryan, of Pittsburg, Kansas. He is also survived by his brother, Steve Gariglietti and his wife, Kathy, of Pittsburg, Kansas; 13 beloved grandchildren; one great-grandson; and many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John A. and Ruth B. Gariglietti, and his brother, John C. Gariglietti.
Ron lived life with an open mind, a gentle heart, and a spirit that was entirely his own. He will be remembered for his kindness, his wit, his love of learning, and the many ways he touched the lives of those around him.
A celebration of Ron’s life will be held on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026, at 6 p.m. at Bath-Naylor Funeral Home. Immediately following the service, family and friends are invited to gather at The Pitt for a toast to his life and the memories shared. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the family in Ron’s honor; these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home. Services are under the direction of the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS 66762.
