Ralph Clayton Kuhlmeier

Ralph Kuhlmeier passed away peacefully on Friday, February 20th. Born in Aurora, Indiana, he was the youngest of seven children. Ralph joined the Navy at 17 and was stationed in Hawaii. He then attended Indiana University where he majored in business and played trumpet in the Marching Hundred Band. Upon graduation, Ralph moved to Chicago where he worked for Bankers Life and Casualty for more than 35 years. He met Karen there; they had a whirlwind romance and married in 1961. Ralph and Karen enjoyed 59 years together. In his free time, Ralph was a talented woodworker and built everything from large furniture to Christmas ornaments.

Ralph is survived by his sister, Frances; daughter, Kelly (Roger); son, Terry (Michele); grandchildren, George and Lindsey; plus many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Stella; his five brothers; wife, Karen; and son, Michael.

Ralph will be remembered as a gentle son, brother, uncle, father, grandfather, and friend. He could not have been prouder of his grandchildren, George and Lindsey, and they will miss their Papa dearly.

Family will be receiving guests on Monday, March 2, 2026 from 10:00 AM until time of service which will begin at 11:00 AM at Gluckert Funeral Home; 1520 North Arlington Heights Rd, Arlington Heights, IL. Following the service, Ralph will be laid to rest at Memory Gardens Cemetery and Mausoleums in Arlington Heights, 2501 E Euclid Ave, Arlington Heights, IL 60004.