Ronald James House, 82, of Festus died Aug. 11, 2026, at Mercy Hospital Jefferson in Crystal City. Mr. House served in the U.S. Marine Corps. He served two tours in Vietnam from 1965 to 1968 and earned a Purple Heart. He retired from LaRoche Industries, where he worked as a chemist. He was known as a devoted family member and an active volunteer throughout his life. He had served on the board of the Twin City Little League, and he was a member of the VFW 3777 and American Legion 253, where he served several years as the financial officer. He enjoyed traveling the world with his wife in his retirement. He loved fishing, animals, going to the casinos and playing cards with family and friends. Born Jan. 15, 1944, in Bonne Terre, he was the son of the late Darilla Ezelle (Fraser) and William Claude House.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years: Beverly (Portell) House; two children: Nina (Joe) Badger of Festus and Matthew House of Maryville, Ill.; five grandchildren: Sydney Badger, Chelsea Badger, Madison Fagala, Samuel House and Jackson House; and his lifelong friend of 77 years: Fred Lednick.
He was preceded in death by three brothers: David House, Robert (Nancy survives of Wentzville) House and John House.
A memorial visitation is scheduled from 4-7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28, at Vinyard Funeral Home, 616 W. Main St., in Festus. A memorial service is scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 29, at the funeral home, officiated by Pastor Kyle Castens. Interment with full military honors will be in Rose Lawn Memorial Gardens in Crystal City. Memorials may be made to Parkinson’s Research Foundation or the Fischer House. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home.