Ralph Everett Foster, 80, of Olathe, Kansas, passed away Saturday, November 8, at Overland Park Regional Medical Center.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 13, at St. Paul Catholic Church, 21650 W. 115th Terrace, Olathe, Kansas. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. at the church, followed by the Rosary at 10:45 a.m. A luncheon will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Paul Catholic Church Capital Campaign for the new church building.
Ralph was born on December 4, 1944, in Little River, Kansas, the son of Everett Leroy and Marcenia Mary (Schuchard) Foster. He grew up in Geneseo, Kansas and was the eldest of four children. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Etta and is survived by his sister Karen and brother Marvin.
Ralph served his country proudly in the United States Navy as a postal clerk aboard the USS Magoffin. After his military service, he settled in Topeka, Kansas and began his career with the United States Postal Service. Known for his dedication and friendly manner, Ralph’s customers affectionately called him “Mr. Service.” He retired in 2001 after 37 years combined in the Navy and Postal Service.
Ralph married Margaret Elizabeth (Becker) Foster, and together they shared 51 wonderful years. Ralph and Margaret saw the world together, traveling to six continents. Most recently Ralph and Margaret traveled to Hawaii in October. Seeing Pearl Harbor had been on Ralph’s travel wish list for many years.
Ralph is survived by his wife Margaret, son Chris and his wife Michelle, and son-in-law Brock. Ralph was preceded in death by his daughter April. He leaves behind six grandchildren: Careena, Garrett, Ava, Everett, Izabelle, and Huck.
A devoted Catholic, Ralph was active in the Knights of Columbus, where he was honored multiple times as Knight of the Year and served multiple term as Grand Knight.
Ralph never met a stranger and was the most welcoming person one could meet. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the joy of knowing him.