Ralph "Leon" Wilks

Ralph “Leon” Wilks, 97, of Independence, Missouri passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 21, 2021. Leon was born to Charles and Sally Wilks on January 16, 1924 in Seligman, Missouri.
At a young age Leon found and married the love of his life, Ruby, on January 25, 1943. They spent the next 75 years creating memories together. They enjoyed years of traveling, square dancing and attending local auctions. Leon was a collector of all sorts. Shortly after they were wed Leon enlisted in the United States Army. He served for many years in the 44th Infantry as a front-line truck driver before his discharge, and earned a bronze star for his bravery. After his time in the military Leon joined the sheet metal union and devoted over 25 years of his life to the Sheet Metal Union Local #2. Leon was proud of his craftsmanship and took every opportunity to build. He enjoyed traveling to their property near Orrick, Missouri to build and work on the land with his son, Dennis. Leon was a friendly man that never met a stranger and was very easy going. He was always willing to lend a hand, especially when it came to remodeling or carpentry. Leon was a member of the River Boulevard Baptist Church for many years and attended regularly with his beloved wife. He will be missed greatly by his family and friends.
Leon is survived by his son, Dennis Wilks (Norma); grandchildren, Brent Wilks and Kim Griffith (Marc); great grandchildren, Devin Griffith, Rylee Griffith and Dalton Wilks (Amanda); and great great grandchildren, Olivia Ryan, Emersyn and Acre Wilks.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Ruby and grandson, Ryan Wilks.
A visitation is scheduled on Tuesday, October 26th from 1-2pm and the funeral service will begin at 2pm. Burial will follow at Mt. Washington Cemetery,