My grandpa Ralph was one of the best parts of my childhood. It’s funny that I didn’t truly realize that until he was no longer here and I now have a daughter. Some of my favorite memories were going to car shows with him and the ‘63 Impala. I remember one show in Newton where I didn’t win anything, and Grandpa had a trophy made for me anyway. You didn’t see that side of him often, but he really did pay attention and show up for those he cared about. Every Saturday morning he’d show up with donut holes for us kids. We would watch down Woodlawn to wait and see the RED car or truck coming down the dirt road. When he got there he’d say “Up for all day?” Some weeks it was chocolate and powdered sugar, other weeks it was white cake donuts. Then we’d head out to lunch together. And if we weren’t eating by noon? According to Grandpa, it was already way too late. 😂 He loved Long John Silver’s, and he always saved the coleslaw for dessert. The older I get, the more I realize how lucky I was to have a grandpa like him. Simple moments with him became the memories I cherish most. I miss him, but I’m so thankful for every car show, every Saturday morning, and every lunch date we got to share. I will tell Adaleya every memory, every time it comes to mind. I love you grandpa
Let the memory of Ralph be with us forever.
Ralph Gilbert Basgall, 92, passed away on June 22, 2025, in Wichita, Kansas.
Ralph was born in Dighton, Kansas, the oldest of thirteen kids born to Everett and Euphrosena (Hartman) Basgall. He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force as a crew chief to a Two Star Major General—a role he took great pride in. After his service, he spent 37 years working at Boeing before retiring in 1995.
Even in retirement, Ralph never slowed down. He dedicated time to helping restore the B-29 Superfortress “Doc,” loved tinkering with old cars, and enjoyed being with his family.
He is survived by a sister, Kathy and his brothers; Leroy (Charolette), Ronnie (Pasty), Raymond (Kathy), and Tony (Loretta). His son Michael (Brenda) Basgall, four grandchildren - Kayleigh (Austin) Agee, Bradyn (Brooke) Basgall, Lynsey (Morgan) Gardner, and Corbyn Basgall. Along with five great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; six brothers—Melvin, Virgil, Bobby, Gerald, Harry, Daniel; a sister, Mary Jane.
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