Raymond George Tietze

Raymond George Tietze, 68, is dearly missed by all. A devoted husband, loving son, father and grandfather, all-in brother and uncle, and steadfast friend, he died peacefully in his sleep on March 3, 2025.

Ray was born June 9, 1956, in lowa City, lowa, to William Blaine and Pernella (Perkie) Elizabeth Tietze. The family relocated to Platteville, Wisconsin, where he grew up and attended Platteville High School through grade 11. He loved adventure-and the riskier, the better. One incident was when Ray and a group of friends decided to try to steal some lights from a police car-while an officer was in the car. The group of kids he ran with always pushed things to the limit. Ray believed that's why his family decided to move to another state-to get him away from rogue influences. This move was a major milestone in his life.

In Silver City, New Mexico, Ray completed his high school senior year and was honored by being a member of All-State Bands in Wisconsin and New Mexico. Being accepted as an All Stater was one of the highest honors a high schoal musician could receive. That year he also enrolled as a part-time student in Western New Mexico University, later earning his Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education.

During his student teaching at Alameda Jr. High in Las Cruces, New Mexico, he demonstrated his ability to connect with students and encourage them with praise, a wide smile, and some humor. Following his university graduation, he accepted a full-time position at Alameda Jr. High. His students loved him because they felt he believed in them, a hallmark trait that would follow him throughout life.

After moving to El Paso, Ray directed high school bands over the next five years. As head band director at Riverside High School, he conducted one of the highest-ranking jazz bands in Texas. "One time at band camp" at Sul Ross State University, he met and fell in love with a counselor named Darlene. His beautiful eyes, great smile, and vibrant personality caught her attention. They married in San Antonio on March 21, 1992.

The couple moved to Houston, Texas, where Ray directed high school and middle school bands. He was named Teacher of the Year-twice-in the Aldine ISD buildings where he taught. After a few years, he decided to step down from the rigorous demands of band performance to spend more time with family. He continued to work with music programs at the intermediate level, retiring after 25 years of dedicated service in the district.

Over the years, Ray became aware of the deeper meaning of service to others. God, family, and friends were his personal convictions and guided his decisions and actions. He developed a passion for mentoring men to become strong leaders in their families and church-better husbands, better fathers, and better individuals. He believed the best in them.

After retirement, Ray continued to build community. He started RGT Services LLC, a small construction company that supported local customers. Wherever he was needed, Ray showed up to do his very best. Darlene and Ray looked for land in several communities, believing that if the right property came along, it was a gift from God, and they would be enthusiastic, vigilant caretakers. They purchased land in Navasota and were able to build and move into their dream home in June of 2021.

Ray is survived by Darlene, his loving wife of 33 years, and adult children Tiffany Rae, Christopher Ray, Morgan LuRae and Taylor Blaine. Additionally, two daughters-in-love, three grandchildren, four sisters and their respective partners, and a host of nieces and nephews complete the family circle.

You're invited to honor the life of Ray Tietze at his Celebration of Life service on Monday, March 24, 2025. Gather at Skybreak Church, 4010 Harvey Rd, College Station, Texas 77845.

Fellowship is from 5-6pm, followed by a 6:30pm service. The family requests that you wear green-Ray's favorite color, or any other bright color—to pay tribute to his upbeat personality. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network in Ray's memory.