Ralph Leslie McCune

Ralph Leslie McCune, age 82, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2024. He was born on November 5, 1942, in Chanute, Kansas, to Arthur G. McCune and Dorothy M. McCune. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents and two siblings. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and devotion to his family.

Ralph is survived by his beloved wife of over 60 years, Carol McCune, whom he married on August 14, 1964. He is also survived by his daughter, Cheri Tugman, and her husband Matthew of Terrell, Oklahoma; his sister, Marilyn Ranebeck, and her husband, Dennis, of Lawrence, Kansas; and his grandsons, Zachary Tugman of Whitney, Texas, Christian Tugman and his fiancée, Tori, of Searcy, Arkansas, Tyler Tugman and his wife Jessica of Waco, Texas, and Spencer Tugman of Warner Robins, Georgia. Ralph also leaves behind his great-granddaughter, Harley Tugman, as well as many nieces and nephews who cherished him deeply.

Ralph dedicated much of his life to working at Kansas University where he spent many years contributing to the success of the institution before retiring in 1999. He was a passionate fan of Kansas University Basketball and the Kansas City Chiefs, always watching the games and cheering on his teams.

Outside of his professional life, Ralph was an avid member of his local bowling league, and he found great joy in fishing and camping with his grandsons. These simple, yet profound moments brought him much happiness, and he loved nothing more than spending time outdoors with his family.

Ralph had a love for music, particularly artists such as Johnny Cash and Stevie Nicks. He also had a deep appreciation for westerns, especially the films of John Wayne, which he often watched with his family. Ralph’s connection to film went beyond his love for movies—he worked at the theater in Lawrence, where he took great pride in running films and sharing his love of cinema with others. His favorite film was El Dorado, a western he cherished.

Ralph was known for his warm smile and his unwavering love for his family. His legacy as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend will live on, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Hill County Paw Pals.

Ralph’s family finds comfort in knowing that he is now at peace, reunited with his loved ones, and forever remembered with love and fondness.