Ralph James Lawless, age 87, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 9, 2024, in West Melbourne, Florida. Ralph was born on February 8, 1937, in Kansas City, Kansas, eldest son to Ralph and Helen (Engler) Lawless. Ralph was united in marriage to Mary Rose Amodeo on August 9, 1964, they spent 16 years together until her untimely death in 1980. He was a 1955 graduate of Bishop Ward High School. He continued his education at Donnelly College before attending the University of Kanas City. He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1962, receiving an honorable discharge after completing his service.
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After living in Kansas City, he moved to Lincoln, Nebraska, then to Des Moines, Iowa, where he lived until 1988 before relocating to Downers Grove, Illinois. Ralph worked for RT French/Reckitt & Coleman as a District Representative Manager. Upon retirement, he moved to Osage Beach, Missouri, where he enjoyed his condominium on the water, fishing, and entertaining frequent visitors. Lastly, he moved to his final retirement spot of West Melbourne, Florida with his partner, Martha Bishop. Ralph was known for a smile that filled you with joy, contagious laugh, and deep love for his family. He worked hard and played harder, always proud of his legacy. Besides fishing, he enjoyed cooking, coming up with different new recipes, westerns, and spending time with family & friends.
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Ralph is survived by daughter Gina (Rob) Lawless-Hyer, daughter Lisa Morstadt, granddaughters Annamarie Hyer, Mary Rose Morstadt, and Madalyn Hyer, brother Michael Lawless and sister Helen (Ray) Lacy. He also has nieces, nephews, and many others he felt as family. His wife, brother Richard, and parents preceded him in death. Ralph was cremated and will be entombed next to his beloved wife at Merle Hay Mausoleum, 4400 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa 50310, February 8, 2025. There will be a gathering beginning at 10 am with a small service at 11 am in Merle Hay Chapel, 4400 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, IA.
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