Ronald Lee Cox

Ronald Lee Cox, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother passed away peacefully on August 19, 2023, in Des Moines, Iowa.  A visitation will be held on August 23, 2023, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM at Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Knoxville, Iowa. Immediately following the visitation, a funeral service will be held at 12:00 PM at the same location. The Pierschbacher Funeral Home, located at 202 E Washington St, Knoxville, IA 50138, will host both events. Lunch will be provided during the visitation.

Ron was born on May 19, 1944, in Mason City, Iowa to his parents Marion and Anna Cox. He began his schooling in Ventura before attending Knoxville High School. At the young age of 16, he began working in construction alongside his brothers. With an innate curiosity for electronics, he furthered his studies at DMACC. Ron went on to own thriving businesses specializing in appliances, electronics, and furniture for over 35 years in Knoxville and Oskaloosa. 

His ability to repair anything was truly impressive; from cars to household appliances – there was no challenge too great for Ron. One of Ron's proudest accomplishments was building the house where he and Tish resided. It served as a testament to his craftsmanship and love for creating a secure haven for those dearest to him. Ron was also known as a jack of all trades, with an incredible talent for fixing things. Whether it was a faulty electrical appliance or a mechanical issue with a car engine, Ron could be relied upon to find a solution. His resourcefulness and skillset were highly regarded by those who knew him. The joy that cars brought to Ron's life cannot be understated. He had a special fondness for his cherished 1962 Impala Super Sport and took great pleasure in restoring and maintaining it throughout the years. In addition to his professional accomplishments and diverse array of hobbies, Ron also served his country in the US Naval Reserves. 

While Ron's professional achievements were commendable, it was his devotion to family that defined him. Above all else, he cherished his loved ones and created a warm and nurturing home. Ron took great pride in being a hands-on father. His family loved him deeply in return. On February 29, 2000, his dedicated wife, Tish, gave him the gift of life by donating her kidney to Ron, allowing him over 20 more years to be with those he loved.

His passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed by his wife, Tish; their children, Karey Ciel, Julie Howie, and Jennifer (Craig) Mobley, as well as his grandchildren, Michael Carnahan, Kelly Howie, Ashley Howie (Eric Vanderpool), Mackenzie Niday, Tanner Mason, Ashlynn Kramer (Kyle), Tristan Mobley; and great-grandchildren Jude Howie and Zayla Carnahan. He is also survived by his sisters Darlene Lightner (Butch), Amy Hanus (Eddie), and brother Danny Cox (Joyce), brother and sister in-law, Danny and Marlys Hollingshead and sister in-law Kathy Cassill; along with many nieces and nephews.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Marion and Anna Cox; brothers, Allen Cox, Gary Cox, Eugene Cox; sisters, Susan Moss and Wendy Harnden; sister-in-law Nancy See; brother-in-law Gary See; and his parents in-law Hubert and Norma Hollingshead.

Memorials can be made to Ron's family to be used for causes near to his heart.