Ricky Vernon Vontungeln

Ricky Vernon Vontungeln of Pine Bluff received his Walk of Honor from the Palliative Care Unit at Little Rock's John L. McClellan Memorial Veteran's Hospital on February 28, 2019 after a long bout with cancer. He was born on December 6, 1948 to the George V. and Mabel Harris von Tungeln, both of whom preceded him in death. Long time residents of the city remember von Tungeln's grocery on State Highway 15 where the family resided for over 50 years. (Some family members now simplify the spelling of the family name.) He is survived by his wife, Phyliss Vontungeln; son, George Vontungeln (Jenny) of Pine Bluff; daughter, Lori Vontungeln Horn (Nathan) of Bryant; sister, Robbie Morgan (Howard, deceased) of Conway; brother, Jimmie von Tungeln (Brenda) of Lonoke; grandsons, Matthew Vontungeln, Gage Horn, and Blake Horn; granddaughter, Natalie Horn; numerous cousins, including his faithful friend and cousin Layman Harris of Pine Bluff. Ricky was a Baptist and a Veteran of the United States Marine Corps. After his years in the service, Ricky worked as a car part specialist and a prison guard before taking over and operating the family grocery, which he took over from his parents in 1980. Friends and family remember him as a witty and captivating person, a natural athlete, and one willing to help a friend in need, despite their standing or position in life. Some who knew him well, called him "The Mayor of Highway 15." The family would like to thank the Veteran's Administration in general and the John L. McClellan Memorial Hospital in particular, including the Oncology and Palliative Care units, for the excellent terminal care provided. He will be missed by family and friends alike. Services will be 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 6, 2019 in the chapel of Ralph Robinson and Son. Private burial will be in Roselawn Cemetery. Online condolences: www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.