Ronald James Rahjes

Ronald Rahjes ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Rentschler Family Mortuaries -Simmons-Rentschler Mortuary - Smith Center on Mar. 16, 2026.Ronald James Rahjes, age 74, of Kensington, Kansas, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026. Ron was born on April 3, 1951, in St Francis, Kansas to Wesley and Martha (Isernhagen) Rahjes and was the older brother of Don and Doug Rahjes. Ron lived his whole life in Kensington, graduating from Kensington High School in 1969 and continuing his education by pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Business, at the University of Kansas.While at KU Ron was set up on a blind date with the woman who would be the love of his life, Cynthia Guy. They knew it was love at first sight and took no time to tie the knot and begin their life together. In their 52-year relationship, they had many adventures and started a family. Ron was a loving father to his children, Angela and Clint, and grandfather to Lauren, Erin, Bradley, and Mackenzie.Ron was a tireless worker who returned from KU to begin working on the farm with his father in 1974 and was later joined by his two brothers. He shared his talents in business and accounting and helped to grow the farm and was an accountant that helped many in the community. In 1991, he participated in the Kansas Agricultural and Rural Leadership program where he was able to grow and see how the world was changing in Eastern Europe. He also enjoyed the travel and camaraderie that was offered to him by being a part of the board of directors for the Federal Land Bank, U.S. AgBank, CoBank, NexTech, and NexTech Wireless. During his time at U.S. AgBank, he helped to oversee the merger with CoBank which combined to form one of the largest agricultural banks in the United States.Ron always cared about his community and was active in many local groups. He was a member of the Sons of the American Legion where he made certain to be involved in cooking the beans every year for Veterans Day celebrations. He served many years as a part of the Rural Fire Department, responding to many emergencies. He was a member of the School Board starting in 1986 and was instrumental in consolidating the West Smith County and Eastern Heights school districts to form the Thunder Ridge School District. Ron made sure that he and his family were at the St. John's Lutheran Church every Sunday and he attended Promise Keepers every Friday morning.Ron loved to travel and made his way to visit places throughout the United States and all around the world. No matter where he went, he always managed to find unique things to try and interesting things to drink. He always had a special love for Mexico and the beaches where he was able to enjoy drinking margaritas and spending time with his family.Ron will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Cynthia, his daughter and son-in-law Angela and Ben Dolezal, his son and daughter-in-law Clinton and Shannon Rahjes, his grandchildren Lauren and Erin Dolezal, Bradley and Mackenzie Rahjes, Brothers Don (Carol) Rahjes and Doug (Wanda) Rahjes, Brothers-in-Law Bruce (Nancy) Guy and Darrell (Susan) Guy, Nieces and Nephews Tim (Lindsey) Guy, Alissa (Mike) Jackson, Britni (Beau) Stephens, Brandi (Sean) Doublestein, Laci (Troy) Babcock, Kelsey (Garrett) Levin, Ryanne (Gabe) Hubbard, Cory (Audrey) Rahjes, and numerous great nieces and nephews. In addition, he is survived by numerous relatives, friends, and acquaintances that touched his life over the past 74 years.Ron led a great life. He was outgoing and quick to make friends with anyone. He was always there to provide advice and help to anyone that asked. He always treated others with honesty and compassion. People who knew Ron knew he was one that could be trusted to do what was right even if it wasn't best for him. He will be missed deeply by all he touched in his well lived life. We know he'll always be watching down on us with his love. May he rest in peace.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.