Gilbert “Gib” John Ruhkamp, 81, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Feb. 5 at Salina Regional Medical Center. He was born Feb. 3, 1938 in Hanover, KS. to August and Anna (Landoll) Ruhkamp. Gilbert was raised on the family farm. He married the love of his life, Pat Meinhardt, on August 10, 1963. Gib and Pat moved to Salina in 1966. Gib was an entrepreneur at heart. He owned and operated Ruhkamp Concrete Contractors for 46 years. He loved to travel with Pat, spend time with his children and grandchildren and watch and cheer on the Kansas Jayhawks. Gib had a “Heart of Gold” and was an inspiration to all. His kind and generous spirit was felt throughout the Salina community as he donated many hours of service to the catholic parishes. His generous heart, kind eyes, sweet smile and hopeful attitude touched us every day. Life won’t be as sweet without “Pa”; but the love he has shown and the strength he has given his family will live on in their hearts forever. Thank you, “Dad”. We love you!

Gib and Pat, together, have 4 children; Bert Ruhkamp; Gay Capito (Mike); Melody Luce (George), all of Overland Park and Jenny Disney (Derik), Salina. They have been blessed with seven grandchildren; Alex, Aaron, Caroline, Andrew, Brandon, Jake and Mady.