COLUMBIA, MO – Ronald “Goliath” Burgundy, a friend to everyone and a stranger to no one, was laid to rest early Tuesday morning. He was 17.

He died at Butternut Court in Columbia, Missouri after a long battle with various health problems including fever, congestion, incontinence and failing joints. Through he was seen by many doctors and had incurred high medical expenses, in the end there was nothing they could do. He went peacefully surrounded by friends and family. He was loved by all who knew him. The remains are being donated to the University of Missouri to benefit research and scholastic advancement.

Ron’s mother was a first generation German immigrant to the United States, though he was proud of the fact that he was truly “Made in the USA.” He is survived by his second wife, Esperanza, owner of Seattle based floral shop, “Brutifal Frower,” and his adopted children, Chris, Rhett, Brian and Brian.

Growing up in the suburbs of South Seattle, his early years were spent enjoying little league soccer, music recitals and Mariner’s baseball. Due to his large stature and famed ability to carry heavy loads, Ron earned many names of endearment such as “The Beast” and “Goliath.” Hobbies included playing with little children, catching dreams, rooting for the Elko Go-Getterz and magic. Favorite music selections included high school pep bands, The Ripple Effect, and Barcelona.

He loved living in the beautiful Pacific Northwest and enjoyed spending time in the mountains, taking the boat to the lake and stargazing. In his later years, Ron developed a new passion for travel, taking his adopted sons on trips to such places as Hollywood, Denver and his favorite place on earth, Elko, Nevada. Though he considered these trips the highlight of his life, they took a tool on his physical ability. At the time of his passing he had logged 260,000 miles of travel, giving him an honorary membership in the Flying J Platinum Club.

Though Ron is now gone, his legacy lives on as his sons continue their travels. He will be greatly missed.

Rest in peace.