Ronald Harner

Lt. Col. Ronald (Ron) Leslie Harner, 88, recently of Beaufort, SC, traded his pilot wings for his heavenly wings on January 26, 2023.

Ron was born in Des Moines, IA on November 26, 1934. He was the son of the late Harold Leslie Harner and Margaret Anne Dayton Harner. Ron attended school in Des Moines and graduated from Drake University in Des Moines. Ron was a member of the Drake University Bulldogs football team, a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity, and a member of ROTC. Ron remained active with the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity and the Drake Football Hall of Fame organization the remainder of his life.

After graduation, Ron joined the US Air Force where he spent the next 28 years serving his country. He became a pilot and rose to the rank of Lt. Col. During his time in the Air Force Ron received several medals including the Combat Readiness Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Medal of Longevity. He flew several missions in Vietnam and later several missions related to US Presidential Visits to foreign countries. Through his military career, Ron had to opportunity to see and explore the world. He had the opportunity to visit every continent except for Antarctica and he had a story for every visit. His proudest moment during his military career was when he had the opportunity to pin officer bars on his daughter, Lisa Anne Harner Fuentes, as she followed in his footsteps with a career in the US Air Force.

Ron loved to travel and see old friends. He also loved having his family around which extended to 3 great grandchildren.

Ron was pre-deceased by his parents, a brother Dr. Marvin Leslie Harner, and a sister Judy Ann Harner Johnson. He was also pre-deceased by his daughter, Lisa Anne Harner Fuentes.

Ron is survived by his daughter Julie Anne Harner Baxley (Edmond) of Beaufort, a son Michael L. Harner (Rhonda) of Myrtle Beach, six grandchildren, Russell (Stephanie) Baxley of Beaufort, Heath (Olga) Baxley of Beaufort, Sydney Harner of Bluffton, Kyle Harner and Tori Harner of Myrtle Beach, and David Fuentes of Dallas, Tx. and 3 great grandchildren.

Arrangements are being prepared by Anderson Funeral Home.