Ralph E. Phillips

Ralph E. Phillips, 72, of Cape Girardeau, died Monday, February 22, 2016 at his home. Ralph was born May 8, 1943 in Cape Girardeau to Walter and Virginia Heise Phillips. He was educated at the former Hanover School and graduated Valedictorian of College High in 1961. Ralph was the first in his family to attend college. He was awarded a scholarship to attend Southeast Missouri State University and then transferred to Missouri School of Mines in Rolla, Mo earning a degree in civil engineering in 1966. After marrying Betty McGee, he began his career at McDonnell Douglas in the Space Program. Ralph then worked in Sikeston for nine years for the Missouri Highway and Transportation Department and then finished his career as the District Engineer for Cape Special Road District. He served in that role for thirty years. Ralph was a kind, hardworking man and he would greet everyone he met with a friendly smile. He was dearly loved and cherished by family and friends. He and Betty were looking forward to celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary in June. Ralph was a member of Cape County Cowboy Church as well as the Antique Tractor Club. His hobbies included raising cattle, collecting antique toys, restoring tractors and working outdoors on the farm. Loving survivors include his wife, Betty McGee Phillips; son, Mark (Kellie) Phillips of Cape Girardeau; daughter, Christina (James) Green of Clarkston, Washington; grandchildren, Morganne (Andrew) Nabors, Luke Phillips, Gavin, Carson, Macy and Trace Green. Ralph was expecting his first great grandson in August. Surviving siblings include brothers, Gene (Clara) Phillips and Harold (Erna) Phillips; sister, Viola (Wesley) Bock and brother-in-law, Melvin Eggimann; brother-in-law, Steve (Sandy) McGee; sister-in-law, Gina (Tom) Taggart; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Anna Lee Eggimann; brother-in-law, Danny McGee and in-laws, Robert and Rosemary McGee. Visitation will be from noon until 3:00 p.m. on Friday, February 26, 2016 at Ford and Sons Mt. Auburn Chapel. The funeral will immediately follow at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor James Green officiating. Burial will follow at Cape County Memorial Park. Memorial donations may be given to the Cape County Cowboy Church.

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Ralph E. Phillips

May 8, 1943 - February 22, 2016