Ray was born and raised in Castell, Texas, and was the youngest of his siblings.

He is preceded in death by his oldest son, Van William Fritze, and grandson James Raymond Fritze, and great-granddaughter Cami Celeste Jacobson, along with all his brothers and sister and parents. Ray is survived by children Suzanne and husband Mike; David and wife Mary; Mike; and Laura and husband Scott; eight granddaughters, Saybra, Austin, Haylee, Riley, Madison, Taylor, Lauren, and Delaney, and a great-granddaughter, Willow. Ray also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and countless friends.

After high school, Ray was drafted and served in the U.S. Army as an enlistee. Upon returning home, he was able to pursue his longtime dream and goal of attending and graduating from Texas A&M University in College Station.

Some of his fondest memories were at that college and being a member of the Corps of Cadets, where he was a highly decorated military officer. One of his biggest achievements was graduating from Texas A&M University with the Class of 1950 and earning a bachelor of science degree and that hard-earned A&M graduate ring.

Shortly after graduation, he re-enlisted in the military as a commissioned officer with the U.S. Air Force and served until he was honorably discharged. Fritze is also a World War II veteran.

Following his service, he took a position as a pharmaceutical sales representative, allowing him the freedom to travel, support his family of seven and maintain his cattle ranch, the “Flyin F” located deep inside Frio County.

Pearsall is where Ray raised Charolais cattle and he was a member in the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association.

Services will be held on Friday, November 3 at 11 a.m. at Ebensberger-Fisher Funeral Home in Boerne.

Flowers or memories of Ray or condolences can be made at https://www. ebensberger-fisher.com/.