Ralph E. Raleigh

Ralph E. Raleigh, 86, of Ottawa, Kansas, passed away Saturday, January 2, 2016, at Olathe Medical Center. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M., Friday, January 8, 2016, at Dengel & Son Mortuary. Family will meet with friends one hour prior to service at 1:00 P.M. Friends may pay their respects to Mr. Raleigh at the mortuary from 5:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. Thursday, January 7, 2016. Interment Highland Cemetery, Ottawa, with military honors by the United States Air Force. Ralph was born Friday, October 4, 1929, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the son of Harry F. and Marjorie C. (Woods) Raleigh. He was raised in Pittsburgh, moving in 1979 to Ottawa. Ralph was united in marriage with Maggie May Clark May 5, 1961 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his parents; three children, Bill Finnigan, Connie Hilner, and Mary Bischoff; two sisters; and three brothers. Survivors include his six children, Clara Fulton of Ottawa, Debbie Johns of Williamsburg, John Pearce of California, Marjorie Culver of Ottawa, Ralph F. Raleigh and wife Lora of Pomona, and Barb Raleigh of Ottawa; brother, Clifford Raleigh and wife Joanne of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; thirty-four grandchildren; sixty-nine great grandchildren; and thirteen great-great grandchildren. Ralph served eight years in the United States Air Force during World War II as a mechanic. He was employed with Jones & Laughlin Corporation, Pennsylvania LTV Steel, retiring in 1979. Ralph enjoyed spending time with his family and eating Nut Logs at the annual family bake off. Ralph loved to grow produce and spend time outdoors. He also was good at tinkering, whether it be cars, farm equipment or lawn mowers, he was your go-to guy. He was a giver and was willing to help anyone in need. Family and friends are encouraged to post their condolences and memories on Ralph’s Tribute Wall at www.dengelmortuary.com