Ralph Smith

(From Konantz Warden Funeral Home)

Ralph Smith passed away on Wednesday September 7, 2022. He was born on August 12, 1935, in Mindenmines, MO to Louis and Ruth "Agnes" (Rummel) Smith. 

Ralph went to school in Mindenmines and Liberal, MO and graduated from Liberal High School in 1953. He served in the US Army and was stationed in Alaska. 

After the military he returned to Mindenmines where he farmed. He married Dollie Stephenson in 1970. Ralph was a lifelong farmer, worked at P&M Coal Company, and at O'Sullivan Industries. 

He enjoyed growing watermelon, cantaloupe, and other vegetables in in his garden. He also enjoyed fishing and hunting quail and deer. He and Dollie enjoyed time together in their home with family and friends. Ralph was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Liberal where he spent over 35 years as Treasurer. He was a loving father and grandfather who enjoyed being with his family and attending events they participated in. He will be missed. 

Ralph is survived by his wife; daughters Marlene (Mark) Beard of Lockwood, MO, Patty Smith of Joplin, MO, Tammy Criner of Pittsburg, KS, and Dorothy (Rick) Spivey of Liberal, MO. He is also survived by sisters Louise Ellis of Grove, OK and Eva (Kenny) Umphenour of Grove, OK and numerous grandchildren, and great grandchildren. 

He is preceded in death by his parents; brother Wallace Smith; and grandchild James Hoag. 

A funeral service will be held at Konantz Warden Funeral Home on Monday September 12, 2022 at 10:00 am. The funeral home will be open from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sunday September 11, 2022, for visitors to sign the book.