Ralph Gordon Wegener

Ralph Gordon Wegener, a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri, at the age of 99. He lived a remarkable life filled with love, adventure, and dedication to his family and country.

Ralph was born on November 6, 1925, in Lafayette County, Missouri, to Arthur and Effie Wegener. He was one of 6 children. He lost his father at the young age of 15 years old in a coal mining accident. The tragedy left a lasting impact on his life, but it didn’t hold him back from becoming a great man.

Ralph proudly served in the Navy during World War II as a Machinist’s Mate on Destroyer ships DD 250 USS Lawrence and DD 780 USS Storms. His service not only exemplified his courage but also instilled in him a deep sense of duty and honor that he carried throughout his life. Following his military service, Ralph held a lifelong career as a tool and die maker, a profession he approached with pride and precision. His craftsmanship was a reflection of his character, and he took great joy in his work.

On March 3, 1951, Ralph married the love of his life, Kathleen Alice Smith. Together, they built a warm and loving home filled with laughter, support, and countless cherished memories. Their partnership was a beautiful example of enduring love and commitment.

In his later years, he found joy in spending time with his family, sharing stories, and creating lasting memories. Many of those memories were made fishing alongside his sons and grandsons, a pastime that allowed him to share his love of the outdoors with those he held dear. Ralph also had a passion for building small-scale ship models, a hobby that allowed him to reminisce about his time in the Navy and showcased his meticulous attention to detail.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathleen Wegener, and his siblings, Barrett, Bill, Dorothy, Donna, and Carol. Ralph leaves behind his sons, Stephen and Donald Wegener; his daughter, Connie Oakes; eight grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry forward his legacy of love and kindness.

As we gather to honor Ralph's remarkable life, we invite family and friends to join us for a visitation on August 14, 2025 at 1:00 PM and funeral service, at 2:00 PM at Newcomer's Floral Hills Funeral Home & Cemetery, 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd, Kansas City, MO.

It will be a time to share stories, celebrate his life, and find comfort in the love he so freely gave and received in return.

Ralph will be remembered as a man of integrity, kindness, and devotion to his family. His loved ones find comfort in knowing he is reunited with those who have gone before him, and they cherish the many memories he leaves behind.