Ronald Wayne “Yonk” Kurfman — O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home

Ronald Wayne “Yonk” Kurfman, 80, of Payson, passed away at 8:32 am Thursday, August 22, 2024, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL.

Ronald was born October 16, 1943, in Annada, MO to Emil and Mary (Coulter) Kurfman.

Yonk graduated from Liberty High School in 1961. Before retiring, Yonk built a commendable career, working diligently at Adam’s Stone and Material (Central Stone) as an operator and later managing Hesco Payson Hardware and Auto Supply. As a proud veteran, he served in the United States Army National Guard where he was called to duty in Vietnam. Those who worked alongside Yonk knew him as a reliable and dedicated colleague and friend.

A man of many interests, Yonk’s hobbies ranged from collecting coins and golf balls to immaculately tending to his lawn. An avid bowler, he enjoyed the friendly competition and camaraderie that came with the sport. Though he occasionally liked to golf, he enjoyed the courses in Camp Point and Barry. His love for the St. Louis Cardinals was unwavering, and loved the opportunity to visit Busch Stadium. His daily routine included his morning walk up to the Payson Fastop.

Above all, Yonk’s commitment to his family and the joys they shared was the hallmark of his life. Cheering on his brother’s fast-pitch softball team and supporting his grandchildren at their sporting events were moments he treasured. Yonk’s life was an embodiment of devotion, creating priceless memories and an enduring legacy.

Survivors include his two children, Kimberly Sue Goodwin (David) and Michael Wayne Kurfman (Renea), both of Liberty, IL; six grandchildren, Trisha Goodwin (Troy), Tara Davis (Craig), Zachary Goodwin (Kendra), Landon Goodwin (Nick), Grady Kurfman, and Kenley Kurfman; four great-grandchildren, Drake and Deacon Davis, Keenan and Knoxleigh Goodwin; and three siblings, David Kurfman, Dwain Kurfman (Theresa), and Evelyn Weisenger.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Jim Kurfman; one sister, Ruby Uhland; one great granddaughter, Hadlee Davis; two sisters in-law, Melody Kurfman and Carolyn Kurfman; two brothers in-law, Harold Schmidt and Lowell Uhland; one nephew, Randy Kurfman; and one niece, Sheryl Johnson.

Friends and Family are invited to Yonk’s Life Celebration at a visitation that will be Tuesday, August 27, 2024, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, IL.

A Funeral Ceremony will be at 10:00 am Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at the O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy. Rev. Steve Disseler will officiate. Burial will be at Payson New Cemetery in Payson, IL, with full military honors given by the Payson VFW and the United States Army National Guard Funeral Honors Detail.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Blessing Hospice.

Online condolences may be shared and video tribute may be viewed at www.ODonnellCookson.com.