Ralph Gerard Thummel, age 62, of Hays, Kansas, died Thursday, March 4, 2021, at his home. He was born April 28, 1958, in Plainville, Kansas to John and Ruth (Hoff) Thummel. He married Wanda (Deges)-Thyfault on June 5, 1987, at Hays, Kansas.
He graduated from Plainville High School in 1976, before earning his bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Music at Wichita State University. He then earned a Bachelor’s in Accounting at Fort Hays State University.
Ralph had a long career in accounting and highly enjoyed working for Sunflower Electric in Hays, Kansas over the last several years. Ralph was a supremely talented musician, who shared his talents with numerous people throughout Kansas by performing in weddings, funerals, church services and involvement in local musical groups. He also enjoyed gardening outside his home and St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church. Ralph was also a big kid at heart and loved to play games and spend time with his numerous nieces and nephews and his grandsons who all adored the time and attention he would devote to them.
Survivors include his wife, Wanda Thummel, of the home; his step-son, John Thyfault, and wife, Jessica; his grandsons, Lincoln and Miles Thyfault; one brother, Mark Thummel and wife, Melinda; four sisters, May Munk; Betty Striggow; Sister Mary Jo Thummel; and Theresa Kriley.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Jon Thummel; three sisters, Vera Kruse; Rosie Hardman; and Grace Thummel.
A private family funeral service will be held at St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church, Hays, Kansas and inurnment at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plainville, Kansas.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church, “for the music ministries” in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 E. 22nd Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.
Condolences can be sent via e-mail to [email protected] or can be left at guest book at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com