Raymond Henry Kirtz

Raymond Henry Kirtz was born in 1942 in Adams. He attended Austin Vocational School and then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. After completing his service, he enjoyed over 30 years working as an engineering technician for IBM. He traveled several times to Germany in connection with his job and was a respected, admired and lauded employee who took extraordinary pride in a thoughtful and thorough day's work. That same commitment carried over in his life as an involved citizen and caring community member. Ray was a Level 4 Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do and studied at the Park Institute in Rochester. He actively supported, encouraged and promoted local youth involvement in sports activities, cheering on neighborhood kids in their basketball and baseball games, and teaching Community Ed Tae Kwon Do classes for 16 years. Ray was recognized by all who knew him as a man of great kindness, humor, integrity and devotion. Ray and Kay were married in 2004 in Tucson, Ariz. He was a loving husband and dedicated his life to cultivating caring relationships with friends and family. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Fred. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kay Kirtz; his two sons, Robert (Elizabeth) of Farmington, and Scott (Penny) of Rochester; four siblings, Joe (Edna) Kirtz of Adams, Jerome (Marlene) Kirtz of Adams, Dorothy Peterson of Albert Lea, and Regina Bottema of Rose Creek; four grandchildren; and many friends, neighbors and extended family members. Raymond H. Kirtz, 71, of Chatfield, died Tuesday at Chosen Valley Care Center in Chatfield, after a brave battle with cancer. He leaves a legacy of selfless care, bright humor and deep compassion. Ray will be grieved and missed by many. A celebration of Ray's life will be held Friday, May 24, at 11 a.m. at the Fillmore Free Methodist Church in Fillmore. Lunch will follow. Burial will be in the Chatfield Cemetery with military honors by the Chatfield VFW Post 6913. Riley funeral home in Chatfield is in charge of arrangements. 507-867-4310 rileyfuneralhomes.com