Ralph Carl Kuhn, 84, of Russell, Kansas, died on Friday, January 6, 2012, at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.

Ralph was born on Wednesday, April 13, 1927, in Gorham, Kansas, the son of Bonaventura J. and Wilhelmena E. (Swartz) Kuhn.  He grew up and attended school in Gorham, Ellis and Russell.  At age 16 he joined the United States Navy and served from 1943 to 1946 in the Pacific in and around Okinawa, Japan.  After serving his country he returned to Russell, Kansas and co-owned and operated Kuhn’s Barber Shop for 35 years.  Later he worked for King of the Road and also worked for ABCO Wire Inc. for 16 years before retiring in 1986.  He met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Darlene M. Leiker on July 23, 1957 in Munjor, Kansas.  From this union they were blessed with 3 children Wanda, R. C. and Kenny.  He was a member of St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell and was a member of the Knights of Columbus.  He was also a member of the Russell V.F.W. Post #6240, American Legion Post #99 and the Elks Lodge.  He loved shooting pool and bowling.  He was a member of many bowling leagues winning many trophies over the years and enjoyed participating in various bowling tournaments.  He also loved having coffee with the boys.    Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Surviving family include his wife of 54 years, Darlene of the home, daughter Wanda Lynch of Russell; son R.C. Kuhn, Jr. of Russell; sister Ednamae Christians and husband Dale of Austin, Texas; 2 granddaughters Karissa and Tammy Lynch.

He was preceded in death by his parents and son Kenny Leiker.

A celebration of the funeral mass will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, January 11, 2012, at the St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell with Father Charles Steier officiating.  Burial will follow at the St. Mary Catholic Cemetery in Russell with the Russell V.F.W., Post 6240 Honor Guard conducting military rites.  A vigil and rosary service will be held at 7 P.M. on Tuesday evening, January 10th at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell.  Visitation will be from 9 A.M. to 7 P.M. Tuesday, January 10, 2011 at the mortuary.  Memorials may be given to the St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church or American Cancer Society and sent in care of the mortuary.  Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.