Gary L. Ruhnke, Age: 76
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Dec 29, 1948---Apr 09, 2025

Gary L. Ruhnke, 76 of Olathe, KS, passed away April 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at Olathe Medical Center. Family services will be private. The family suggests memorial contributions to: Cure of Ars Catholic Church or St John Paul II Academy in Olathe.

 Gary was born December 29, 1948 in Kansas City Missouri, the son of Milton and Lillian (Mead) Ruhnke. He was a graduate of Wyandotte High School in Kansas City, KS  and attended Donnelly College. Gary met the love of his life, Debbie McCoy at Big Mike's on Shawnee Mission Parkway in early 1971 and they were married on September 3, 1971 at the Cathedral of St. Peter. Gary started his career as a graphic designer at Lee Co. He retired from Walsworth Publishing in 2021.

 Gary was a passionate reader and historian, as well as an award-winning modeler specializing in World War subjects. He was an active member of the IPMS club.  He loved being with his family and two grandsons who lovingly called him G-Pa. Along with cherishing time with his family, Gary enjoyed taking walks with his loyal companion Gypsy, spending time at the beach, and watching movies. He was always willing to help others and was handy at fixing/repairing things.  He was preceded in death by his parents Milton & Lillian Ruhnke, his father-in-law, Frank McCoy and his half brother Corkie Ivy. Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Debbie; his two children, Eric and Cindy, along with her husband, Chris; and his cherished grandsons, Caden and Cody Gaertner. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Mary McCoy; his four sisters-in-law and four brothers-in-law; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

St. John Paul II Academy Donation

Curé of Ars Catholic Church Donation

 

 


Condolences

Dick Asquith Apr 11, 2025

Past Friend from Olathe ,Macon ,Missouri

Debbie & family I’m extremely sorry to hear of Gary’s passing! You both were very special to Cindy and I during our Olathe time! Both Lindsay and Aaron have fond memories of their second dad Gary! We were so fortunate to have you in our lives during a difficult time! Love you all. Please think of the good memories often! Gary will be missed…

Aaron Asquith Apr 11, 2025

Almost a step son ,Kansas City ,Missouri

This family was a second family to us. Gary was talented in his craft; however, was also a mentor to me. Eric, Cindy and I had great times on Summertree and in Briarwood which shaped who I am. Every time I hear The Beach Boys, I can see Gary getting after it! Every time I see a design or pen work, I appreciate his craft. My heart goes out to my 2nd family. My family was blessed (and still are) to have the Ruhnke family as a part and continued part of our lives. Play on, Beach Boy.

Mark T. Gerges Apr 13, 2025

friend ,Leavenworth ,Kansas

Debbie and family, the condolences of the IPMS Prision City Model club goes out to you all. We got to know Gary from attending our monthly meetings here in Leavenworth, and various model shows around the KC area. He was a talented model builder. More importantly, he was a kind, encouraging, and fun man to be around. The Kansas City modeling community is a lessened with his passing. Our prayers are with you.

Cameron Davis Apr 14, 2025

Co-Worker of Eric ,Charlotte ,North Carolina

Mrs. Ruhnke, Eric and family. I would like to express my deepest sympathy and condolences on the loss of Mr. Gary. I hope you all take comfort in the memories and good times you had with him. If Gary is anything like his son Eric, i know he was a great guy and he will be truly missed! My thoughts and prayers are with each of you!

Paula Slifer Apr 14, 2025

Friend ,Edmond ,Oklahoma

Dear Debbie and family, I was so saddened to learn of Gary’s passing. Please know I send my sincerest condolences to your family. May your memories comfort you at this most sad time . Prayers for you all. Paula Slifer

William Pettyjohn Apr 15, 2025

Friend ,topeka ,Kansas

Condolences to Gary's family and God bless! I first met Gary at the Heart Of America Chapter of The International Plastic Modeler Society meeting at Papenfus Hardware in Kansas City Missouri in the late 1970s and were close modeling friends from then on. Gary was a fantastic modeler winning many awards with his skillful work on world war subjects. We shared techniques and long conversations at many contest venues. Needles to say I will miss him greatly!