Ralph Edward Hedgespeth

DUE TO THE WEATHER, THE GRAVESIDE SERVICE HAS BEEN CHANGED TO A MEMORIAL SERVICE LOCATED AT THE DUNLAP GYMNASIUM, 601 5TH STREET, COUNCIL GROVE, KS. 66846.

Ralph Hedgespeth, born on August 12, 1946, was a devoted husband, father, and community servant whose life was rooted in hard work, service, and family. On September 24, 1965, Ralph married the love of his life, Wanda, beginning a partnership that spanned decades and formed the foundation of his family and values.

Ralph was the proud father of two sons, Brian Hedgespeth and Paul Hedgespeth, whom he raised with the same dedication, integrity, and work ethic that defined every part of his life.

He was also a proud grandfather of six grandchildren: Nic Hedgespeth, Christine Arias (Rodolfo), Jessica Wamser (Jordan), Lisa Patterson (Riley), Ashley Hedgespeth, and Rachelle Hedgespeth. Through his wonderful grandchildren, he was blessed with numerous great-grandchildren, who brought him great joy and pride.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Hester Hedgespeth, and by his loving wife, Wanda (Williams) Hedgespeth. He is survived by his sister, Linda (Larry) Davison, of Clinton, Missouri, as well as his two sons, Brian Hedgespeth (Melanie) and Paul Hedgespeth.

A lifelong farmer, Ralph had a deep love for the land and the farming way of life. His commitment to agriculture extended far beyond his own fields. He served two terms as a local Farm Bureau president, advocating for farmers and rural communities, and was deeply involved in 4-H, where he mentored young people and helped instill values of responsibility, leadership, and stewardship.

Ralph was also a volunteer firefighter, answering the call to serve his community whenever needed-a true reflection of his selflessness and strong sense of duty.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM, Friday, January 23rd at the Dunlap Gymnasium.  A luncheon will  be served for family and friends at 12:00 PM also at the Dunlap Gymnasium. 

Memorial donations may be made to the Dunlap Fire Department and can be sent in care of Sawyer Funeral Home, PO Box 273, Council Grove, KS. 66846.