Obituaries

Ronald “Ronny” Francis Falsone, also known as Grand-dude, was deeply loved by his many friends and family and passed away peacefully at home on July 24, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Ronny was born in Marlin, Texas, on March 13th, 1951, to Robert and Cora Falsone. Ronny and his three siblings grew up surrounded by a large extended family in Marlin. Ronny lived, played, and went to school in Marlin until leaving for the University of Texas at Austin, where he studied Art and Film. Ronny loved the energy, culture, and groovy atmosphere of Austin and made it his home for the rest of his life. He reveled in the vibrant music scene, seeing countless artists, both locally and internationally recognized; in one year alone, Ronny and Joy caught Paul McCartney, U2, Steve Winwood, and Eric Clapton. Ronny was also a devoted person of faith, a great comfort to him throughout his life and particularly at its very end. Ronny was certain he was going home. Not long before he passed, this is how Ronny described his own life: “I have had a full and rich life of loving and being loved by family and friends. I thank each and every one of you for sharing this journey with me. We are all spiritual beings having a human experience.” Ronny is survived by his beloved best friend and life partner, Joy Sottile; his daughter Gina and her husband Ken Burchenal, his grandchildren Dee Dee Stap and her husband Josh Talty, Wynne Burchenal, and Adam Burchenal; his brother Bobby Falsone, his sister Francine and Steven Haas, nephew Steven Haas and his wife Stacy, their son Addison; his sister Rosemary Teague, niece Brianna and her husband Eddie Cantu, their children Elio and Lucia; niece Payton Teague; brother-in-law Chris Sottile and his wife Jody, their daughter Nicole and her husband Jake; brother-in-law and best friend Chet Sottile and his wife Diana, their daughter Isabella; and too many friends to list. Everyone who knew Ronny well loved him. We will all miss Ronny’s laugh, smile, and abundant love. The family wants to express their gratitude for the love and compassion shown to them by his wide circle of friends, but especially to Tim and El O’Gorman. In place of flowers, Ronny asked that donations be made in his name to www.hospiceaustin. org. Ronald Francis “Ronny” Falsone

Kathleen “Kathy” L. Horelica, 49, of Burlington died Thursday in a Temple hospital. Private family services will be at a later date.

Michael Arthur Dragoo, 61, of Mart, Texas passed away September 9, 2025. A memorial visitation will be held Saturday afternoon, September 20, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 at Pecan Grove Funeral Home, 3124 Robinson Drive, Waco, Texas.