Melvin "Duke" Ralston Jr.

Duke graduated from Pueblo Central High School in Pueblo, Colorado. After high-school, he went on to study at Emporia State Teachers' College, and obtained a Masters Degree in education. He had a true love for the English language and teaching and taught at both Augusta Senior High School and Butler County Junior College. His former students remember him as the toughest teacher they ever had, but knew it was intended to push them to their fullest potential.

Duke also worked at NCR and later retired from Boeing Aircraft. After his retirement, he spent his time volunteering at the Augusta Caring Center and playing golf. Duke was also a sports enthusiast and was an avid supporter of all Kansas, professional and college teams. He will be missed greatly by his family and close friends.

He is survived by: his wife, Darlene Ralston; his brother, Rick (Darlina) Ralston; his sister, Sue (Mark) Petersen; his daughters, Debbie Ralston-Dunegan, Darcy Herold, and Lauri Paige (Mike) Buckman; along with 7 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.

Per Melvin's request, cremation has taken place. No formal services will be held.

The family would like to thank the doctors and staff at Wesley Medical Center and the kind, caring staff of Good Shepherd Hospice of Wichita.