Gary Updegraff

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Gary Dale Updegraff was born November 13, 1951 in Joplin, MO to Ralph E Updegraff Sr and Mary N Updegraff (nee English). He was welcomed to his heavenly home on December 25, 2025 after a long, hard-fought journey with cancer and its countless complications.

Gary attended Joplin schools graduating from Parkwood High School with the class of 1969. He played multiple sports but his passion was baseball, reaching the semi-pro level. He continued to have a love of sports playing softball with multiple local and traveling teams into his fifties.

Gary’s professional career spanned over four decades with Bagcraft Corporation.

During that time he served in several capacities contributing to many significant projects including the relocation of the Joplin, MO facility to Baxter Springs, KS. He was dedicated and hard-working and retired in 2013 after 42 years of service. Following his retirement, he could be found on area golf courses with “The Boys” 3 times per week (his favorite being Center Creek Country Club in Sarcoxie), mowing his lawn and the lawns of several neighbors on his riding mower and spending time with his loyal dog, Gracee. He was an avid KC Chiefs fan, flying his flags to support them during the highs and lows as well as the KC Royals.

He is survived by his son Gary Updegraff II (Rhonda) of Carl Junction, daughter Heather Culpepper (Stephen) of Joplin and daughter Brittney Updegraff (Kathey) of Bella Vista AR. Brothers Ralph Updegraff Jr and Larry Updegraff (Janis) and sister Ruth Miller (Norman) all of Carthage. As well as a host of loving grandchildren, nephews, nieces and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Sherry, a sister Dixie Munch and brother-in-law Roy “Bud” Munch Sr., daughter-in-law, Misty Updegraff and granddaughter Kayli Updegraff. Gary held a strong faith in his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and his wish was to rejoin his wife and to never spend another Valentine’s Day, Anniversary, Birthday, Christmas or New Years apart.

Per Gary’s wishes, a private family graveside service will be held. Our family is grateful for your thoughts and prayers during this time.

Arrangements are under the personal care of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory of Joplin, MO.