04/22/2026
🕊️ Mr. Allen V. Ronnebaum, 87, of Columbia, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, April 20, 2026.
Allen was born January 24, 1939, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the son of Vincent and Elizabeth "Betty" (Broxterman) Ronnebaum. On April 12, 1975, he married Judith Ann Wagner, who survives at their home.
Allen was, in every sense, a man of many lifetimes. A lifelong entrepreneur, he spent his years owning and operating grocery stores, convenience stores, and restaurants, but for him, it was never just about the business. He had a natural instinct to see possibilities where others saw very little. He loved the challenge of taking something overlooked, something undervalued, and turning it into something more. Whether or not the numbers always agreed, Allen firmly believed in his vision, and he pursued it with energy, determination, and a bit of humor that those close to him came to love.
He was a hustler in the best sense of the word, a buyer, a seller, a dealmaker, and a storyteller. He worked tirelessly, often long hours, driven by a deep sense of responsibility to provide for his family. Work was not just what he did, it was part of who he was, but beyond that drive was a man known for his kindness. Allen had a one-of-a-kind presence, quick with a story, set in his way, yet possessing one of the gentlest hearts. Those who knew him will remember his humor, his quiet strength, and his striking blue eyes that seemed to carry a lifetime of experience.
He loved his family deeply and was immensely proud of each of them and their accomplishments. Though he spent much of his life working, everything he did was rooted in that love and commitment.
Allen was a faithful member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. His faith was not loud or showy, but steady and present, a quiet foundation throughout his life.
In addition to his beloved wife, Judy, he is survived by his children: David (Tonya) Ronnebaum of Fulton, Jill Ronnebaum of Columbia, Timothy (Stacy) Ronnebaum of Columbus, Ohio, and Jennifer (Joe) Heath of Columbia; grandchildren: Jeffrey Ronnebaum, Shawn Nelson, Natasha Maierhofer, Vincent Ronnebaum, Dominik Ronnebaum, Madison Ronnebaum, Taylor Heath, and Lucas Heath; five great grandchildren; his brother, Donald (Marcia) Ronnebaum of Blue Springs; and numerous cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Vincent and Elizabeth “Betty” Ronnebaum.
Expressions of sympathy may be made to the MU Sinclair School of Nursing in honor of Allen to support the Ronnebaum Scholarship in Nursing Fund, continuing his legacy of hard work and care for others. Contributions may be made online at nursing.missouri.edu/giving or by check payable to the University of Missouri and mailed to 915 Hitt Street, S403, Columbia, MO 65211. Additionally, memorials can be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church or the American Cancer Society; all of which were special to Allen.
Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Daniel Merz officiating.
Arrangements for Mr. Ronnebaum are under the direction of TYLER M. WOODS FUNERAL DIRECTOR, 611 E. Capitol Ave. Jefferson City, Missouri 65101. (573) 636-2424. Condolences may be made to the family at www.WoodsMemorialServices.com