Ralph R. Bane, 90, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2025. Born December 15, 1934, Ralph lived a full and vibrant life, marked by love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to his family.
He graduated from Hugoton High School in 1954 and married Jessie Lois Thompson on July 5, 1955. Ralph and Jessie raised three girls in Hugoton while Ralph farmed, worked at Anadarko, and drove a truck. After Jessie’s passing, Ralph and Peggy found each other and married in 2007, sharing a blessed, family-filled couple of decades until his passing.
Ralph’s legacy extends far beyond his accomplishments; it’s woven into the hearts of his loved ones. He was predeceased by his parents, Ralph Bane Sr. and Leona Bane, as well as his first wife, Jessie Bane, and their daughters, Kelli Wise and Kim Bane, and his step-daughter, Denise Leonard. He is survived by his beloved wife, Peggy Bane; daughter Kristi Naylor (Jim) of El Dorado, KS; step-sons Donald Knier, Jr. (Tonya) and David Knier; daughter-in-law Theresa Cox; son-in-law Jan Leonard; and a large, loving family of grandchildren including Tanner Bane of Wichita, KS; Tristyn Swanson (Joshua) of Lindsborg, KS; Ian Baker of Kansas City, KS, Ashley Knier (Ty), Megan Knier, Drake Knier, Allison Knier-Sondag (Matt), Kayla Knier (Justin), Krysta Knier, Brock Leonard (Nicole), and Justin Kemp (Jessica). Ralph was blessed with several great-grandchildren as well, including Bodhi Swanson of Lindsborg, KS; Jackson Knier, Grayson Allen, Lilythe Knier, Hunter Sondag, Kali Findley, Payton Kemp, and Brynlee Kemp.
Ralph was a devoted grandfather who reveled in spending time with his grandchildren. He was a passionate fan of the Hugoton Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys, and enjoyed watching children participate in all types of sports. Known for his ornery sense of humor and engaging conversation, he possessed an easy nature with short bursts of his maternal ancestry’s Hatfield spirit. In his younger years, the cheerful sound of his whistling or humming often filled the air, a testament to his fun-loving spirit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Project Hope in Hugoton, in Ralph’s memory. Arrangements are in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 920 E. 11th St., Hugoton, KS 67951. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.