Richard Claire Rupp

Richard Claire Rupp, a lifelong resident of the Dorrance and Wilson, KS area passed away on July 9, 2024, at Village Manor in Abilene, at the age of 86.

Richard was born on a farm in Phillips County KS on July 22, 1937, to Henry and Ruth Mary (Clason) Rupp, until his family moved to a farm near Long Island, KS where Richard spent his formative years.

After graduating from Long Island High School in 1955, he attended Fort Hays State University for two years. Seeking to further his education, he enlisted in the U.S. Army for 3 years and was sent to process soldiers out-of-country to return home following the Korean conflict.

Much to his chagrin, Richard recently shared with his family that he received a “reprimand” for sleeping in and missing PT two days before being discharged. Despite his dereliction of duty, Richard earned a Good Conduct Medal and an honorable discharge as a Private 1st Class.

Upon his return to Kansas, Richard discovered his true calling when he was encouraged to try student teaching. He earned his master’s degree in business education and graduated with Sumi Cum Laude honors. In 1967, Richard married Norma Jean Zigler in Russell, KS, and they made their home in Dorrance until retiring to Wilson.

Richard dedicated much of his life to education. He taught business classes and coached various sports at Dorrance High School for 15 years. Later, he joined the teaching staff at Lucas Luray High School, where he spent 17 years teaching and coaching before retiring.

Richard actively participated in community service in the communities he loved. He served as a member and president of the Dorrance Lions Club and the Wilson Lions Club. He also helped at the Wilson Senior Center however he could.

Sports held a special place in Richard’s heart. His passion for KU basketball began when his family got electricity on their farm in 1949. He vividly remembered cheering for the Jayhawks, during their 1952 national championship victory, while listening to radio late into the night with his brother Clay.

Richard was also a loyal Chiefs fan, celebrating their victories following many challenging seasons. His family cherished the moments they spent cheering alongside him.

Richard is survived by his children, Lisa (Ward) Turnbull of Abilene KS; Brad Kaufman of Vallejo, CA; and Angela (Fred) Arnet of Russell; brother, Clay Rupp of Wilson, KS; 10 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandson.

Richard’s legacy extends beyond his family. He touched the lives of countless students, but he also made friends wherever he went and built a close-knit family of brothers and sisters throughout the years. His family considers sharing Richard with those he influenced a true honor and blessing.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Norma, his sister Mary “Beth” Johnson, and 1 granddaughter.

Visitation will be held on Friday, 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home in Wilson. The funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, July 20, 2024, at 2:00 PM, at the funeral home, to be concluded with military honors. A Celebration of Richard’s life will take place at the Dorrance American Legion after the service. Burial at the Dorrance Cemetery in Dorrance, KS is to be determined later.

Memorials are suggested to Wilson Senior Center or Wilson United Methodist Church and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, P.O. Box 533, Wilson, KS 67490.