Alonzo (Lon) Ware McKinney was called home on December 31, 2020. He was born May 15, 1918 in Pawhuska, Oklahoma to Beulah Mae and Ray F. McKinney. He graduated from Chickasha High School in 1936 and attended the University of Oklahoma where he received his degree in architectural engineering. He was a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity. Lon was a World War II Navy Veteran of five major Pacific theater engagements aboard the aircraft carrier, the Saginaw Bay.
He married Mary Ellen Wampler in Glendale, California on September 18, 1941. Following his military service, he was employed by Sverdrup and Parcel, St. Louis, as a consulting engineer. Lon was latter employed by Locarni Marble Company of Carthage. In 1961, Mr. McKinney and William Cornwell formed an architectural and engineering firm in Joplin. They worked on numerous projects throughout the Four-State area and many of their building are still in use today. In 1983, Lon formed his own structural engineering consulting firm and continued to provide engineering services until his late 80s.
Lon was very active in many professional organizations including the Missouri Society of Professional Engineers, Joplin and Carthage Rotary Clubs, President of the Broadview Country Club, Chairman of the first Planning and Zoning Commission of Carthage, Park Board member, Family Literacy Council board, Boylan Foundation board, the Historical Phelps House board and the Mayko Trout Unlimited Fly Fishing organization. Lon was a proud member of the Osage Nation.
Throughout his life, Lon was a very active member of the First Presbyterian Church and served in numerous capacities including Elder, Deacon, numerous committees, and routinely provided engineering services.
Lon was passionate about fly fishing and remained active in the sport until his early 90s when he traveled to Kamchatka Russia with his son Mark. Together they traveled to Alaska, Belize, Wyoming, Montana, Colorado, and New Mexico. He enjoyed numerous fishing trips to Arkansas with many dear friends.
Lon is survived by his son Mark McKinney and wife Jan of Castle Rock, Colorado, daughter Marcia Davis and husband Al of Richardson, Texas; granddaughter Stephanie Harbin and great-granddaughters Isabelle and Katherine Harbin; and grandchildren Christopher Randolph and Jennifer Stephens and great-grandchildren Elijah Randolph and Harper, Riley, and Addie Stephens. He was predeceased by his wife, brother, and parents.
Funeral arrangements to be announced by Knell Mortuary, Carthage, Missouri. Memorial donations may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, Carthage Missouri. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.
