(1939-2026)

Ralph Cris Naegele, 86, of Troy, Ohio, passed away June 12, 2026, in Panama City Beach, Fla., where he and his wife were residing.

Ralph was born on Sept. 3, 1939, in Ellsworth, Kan., to Cris and Mary (Lundgrin) Naegele. He spent his childhood in Ellsworth, graduating from Ellsworth High School in 1957.He then received his bachelor’s degree in education and his master’s degree in mathematics from Emporia State Teachers College. He also served in the National Guard.

He was united in marriage to Rita Urbanek on July 27, 1963. The couple called many places home, including Cape Girardeau, Mo.; Elkhart, Ind.; Troy, Ohio; Piqua, Ohio; and finally Panama City Beach, Fla.

Ralph worked at Hobart for 30-plus years, was Exalted Ruler of the Elks, a member of the Episcopal Church, loved NASCAR racing, wood working, basketball and football. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife Rita and his children Darci (George) Lorenzo, Dirk (Cyn) Naegele and Jeff (Heather) Naegele; 15 grandchildren; three greatgrandchildren; and his sisters Glennys Bruning and Jolene Krier.

Ralph was proceeded in death by his parents and his siblings Enola (Wayne) Hetzler, Helen Mason, Anona (Norman) Vague, Evelyn (Dennis) Gourley, an infant brother and his brother-in-law Leroy Bruning.

A memorial service was held on July 24, 2026, at Grace Episcopal Church in Panama City Beach, Fla. A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. on Oct. 2, 2026, at the old Ellsworth Cemetery, followed by refreshments at J.H. Robbins Memorial Library, Ellsworth.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Heart Association or the Alzheimer’s Association, c/o Parsons Funeral Home, P.O. Box 45, Ellsworth, KS 67439. Condolences can be left at parsonsfh. com.