In memory of Ronald Ray Burgess, born April 13, 1944 in San Jose CA, passed in Tehachapi, CA on October 14, 2024.
Ronald served in the United States Air Force proudly from 1962 to 1969. After military life, he worked as a master Tech Mechanic for many years with his last position being a Wood Shop Supervisor at the prison.
His hobbies were cars and motorcycles. He raced anything with wheels, and probably owned at least one model of every car there is - breaking bones and so enjoyed telling lies about those events.
Ronald loved food, laughter, fun and traveling. He loved the Lord, life, and his friends. He was always friendly, never meeting a stranger. He loved living in Tehachapi for over 40 years. He loved his wife and being married to Susie for 29 years. He is now in his new home, heaven - laughing with friends old and new. His message would be, “Thanks for the memories, times shared, playing and racing with the boys and their toys.”
Ronald is survived by his wife Susie Burgess, Mother Ula Gouveia, four sisters, two brothers, and many friends.
A special thanks from Susie to all the friends and family who visited and prayed, especially to Bill and Karen Fisher, and Wayne Sewell for walking with us these last days. It made living and passing a little easier. Lastly, love the Lord, each other, and enjoy life. Don’t get old, just play a lot. Also, a special thank you for the excellent care from Tehachapi Manor caregivers and Bristol Hospice. Bless them for going above and beyond the call of duty.NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this military veteran. For those interested, and all PGR members are welcome, we will be accompanying the hero and his family from the mortuary to the cemetery, approximately 18 miles. Please see the timetable if you would like to participate. For those who would rather go directly to the cemetery, we will meet you there.
TIMETABLE FOR THURSDAY, 31 OCTOBER 20240930: Stage at Wood Family Funeral Service, 321 West F St, Tehachapi, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/xkr5c8GxgyJBuk9a60940: Mission briefing.
0945: KSU to Bakersfield National Cemetery, 30338 E Bear Mountain Blvd, Arvin, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/L2SJMY3nwuevdY1y91015: ETA to Bakersfield National Cemetery.
1045: Flag line and military honors.
Jim “Pops” Davis
US Army 1964-1970
Vietnam 1966-1970
Army Ranger Mos 63B20& 63C20
jdavisabajo514@yahoo.com
661-221-3120You do not have to be a veteran or a motorcycle rider to attend this mission. All PGR members are welcome. We encourage those who do not ride to attend in your car. If this will be your first mission go to the initial staging area and you will be briefed there by the Ride Captain (RC). Dress for motorcycle riding or dress casually if you are driving a cage (car). Please feel free to attend any portion of this mission you can. Please ride/drive safely.
Please remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent, and with honor and respect for our heroes. No talking, smoking, or cell phone use during the flag line or service. Please keep radios off and engine noise to a minimum. Observe the 15 MPH speed limit. Remember, cemeteries are hallowed ground. Show respect to all who are there, not just the ones we are honoring.
