Ralph Paul Melenson was born on March 14, 1940, in Grandview, Missouri, the seventh of eight children born to Oliver and Dorothea Elmer Melenson. Ralph passed away July 5, 2021, at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, Arkansas. His parents, grandparents, six brothers, and one sister predeceased him.
At a young age, Ralph followed his older brothers in becoming a caddy at Oakwood Country Club in Kansas City. It was there that he developed a love of, and passion for, golf. He soon began participating in junior golf events in the area, and he was a frequent winner. His skill and talent continued into adulthood until his health began to decline.
Ralph was an assistant golf pro in Silver Spring, Maryland, when he was drafted into the U.S. Army. Most of his military tour was spent in Korea until, because of illness, he returned to the mainland and was admitted to Walter Reed Military Hospital in Washington, DC to recuperate.
After being honorably discharged, he returned to Missouri. Subsequently, he moved to Kansas City and was employed by A&P Grocers and St. Luke’s Hospital. In addition to this work, he also was co-owner of Melenson Landscaping.
Ralph was a perfectionist as well as a man of integrity, trust, determination, and perseverance. Most important to him was his Catholic faith.
In 2000, he and his wife, Phyllis, née Rietcheck, moved to Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, where they became members of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church. Ralph attended daily Mass, and he became a sacristan in the parish, as well as a Eucharistic Adorer and a member of local Knights of Columbus Council 10208. Each year he worked tirelessly to ensure that the annual K of C charity golf tournament was successful.
He is survived by his wife of thirty-six years, many cousins, nieces and nephews. A funeral Mass was celebrated on July 12 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church with Fr. William Elser officiating. Interment will be at a later date.