Dr. Ronald W. Prielipp, 79, of Salina, passed away Friday, August 30, 2019. He was born May 8, 1940 in Wausau, Wisconsin to Emil and Martha (Hintz) Prielipp.
While students at the University of Oregon, Ron met Beth Oberg. They were married June 20, 1970 and settled in Eugene, Ore., as Ron continued his pursuit of a Ph.D. in mathematics. In 1976 the Prielipps moved to Salina, when Ron accepted a job at Bethany College in Lindsborg, Kan. In 2002 Ron retired as Professor Emeritus from Bethany.

As a couple Beth and Ron became active collectors gathering substantial collections of Belleek Irish Parian china and glass paperweights. Their collecting spread to other items as well as with treasures found at local and internet auctions. Joining collectors groups for Belleek (BCIS) and paperweights (PCA) enhanced their collecting habits and knowledge of collectibles. Retirement didn’t cease the collecting bug. Local auctions became social events, educational events and led to their collectables being extended.

Ron was preceded by his wife, Beth; parents; and two brothers, Robert, and Walter.

He is survived by Robert Carlson (Karen) of Lindsborg; Marcy Rust (Gary) of Topeka; Jeff Ensz (Teresa) of Salina; Nat Eastep of Salina; and many beloved students, colleagues, and friends over the years.

A celebration of life will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019 at Pearson Chapel on the Bethany Campus.

Memorials to: Bethany College, 335 East Swensson St., Lindsborg, Kan. 67456.