Ralph M. Gundelfinger

Ralph M. Gundelfinger passed away peacefully on August 21st, 2024, at Sharon Lane Health and Rehabilitation after a short illness.

Ralph was born on April 10th, 1925, to parents Thomas and Janet Gundelfinger of St. Louis, Missouri.

Ralph was 17 years old when he enlisted in the Marines during World War II.  He was assigned to a tank battalion in the South Pacific.  He was injured in a tank accident and spent the rest of the war stationed in Hawaii as a radio operator.  Ralph later returned to Missouri to attend college.  He went on to become an insurance investigator.  He spent 40 years in the field and retired as Vice-President of Hospital Service Group.  

After retiring Ralph met and married his wife, Stella.   He was a devoted and loving husband.  They shared an adventurous spirit and were married in Aspen, Colorado in a hot air balloon.  They enjoyed countless adventures together traveling to Europe and Hawaii.  They loved entertaining family and friends.   Ralph found joy in volunteering at the Nelson-Atkins Museum, Hospice House and being part of a men’s group at Church of the Nativity.  

Ralph was a very spiritual man.  He had a special place in his heart for animals.  He enjoyed helping with the blessing of the animals at church.  

Ralph is preceded in death by his first wife Maxine Gundelfinger and wife Stella Gundelfinger; stepchildren Kevin Patrick and Christa Patrick.  He is survived by his daughter in law Kathy Patrick and grandchildren, Mackenzie and Megan Patrick.  

Ralph’s funeral service will be held at Good Shepherd Catholic Church on September 19th at 10:00am.