Raymond Raetz

Raymond Reed Raetz, 54, of Gothenburg, Nebraska, died August 29, 2014 at Park View Villa in Gothenburg, NE.

He was born March 1, 1960 in Gothenburg, NE, an only child of Fredrick "Fritz" Martin and Marie Alwilda Raetz. Ray graduated from Gothenburg High School in 1978.

Ray lived his entire life in the Gothenburg area. His early interests included old cars. Music was his love. He sang and was especially gifted in playing the piano by ear only. In his younger years he was a member of an area dance band. He often played piano to entertain groups and also the elderly at different places. He was a member of the United Methodist Church and on occasion sang with the choir. He loved attending all school activities, including sports and arts.

Ray is survived by an aunt, Verna Derderian, of Mundelein, Illinois, and numerous cousins.

Raymond was preceded in death by father, Fredrick "Fritz" Martin Raetz, mother, Marie Alwilda Raetz.

Visitation will be held at Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel, Gothenburg, Nebraska; Tuesday, September 02, 2014 9:00 am - 2:00 pm.

Services will be held at Fort McPherson National Cemetery, September 2, 2014 at 2:30 pm with Pastor Larry Viter officiating.

Interment will follow in the Fort McPherson National Cemetery, Maxwell, Nebraska.

Memorials may be given to the First United Methodist Church, 1401 Lake Ave, Gothenburg, NE 69138.