Raymond “Ray” Pitsch

Raymond Nickolis Pitsch, son of John and Mary (Hein) Pitsch, was born on April 8, 1934.  He attended St. Mary’s Catholic School in Portsmouth. After graduation he helped on his family’s farm until he was called to serve in the United States Army on May 15, 1957.  Ray served overseas until his honorable discharge on May 6, 1959.  Upon returning home, he resumed working alongside his father on the family farm, eventually taking over the operation. He poured his life into the land and remained a faithful, longtime member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Portsmouth.
Ray loved being outdoors and felt most at home being out in nature. He enjoyed all things mechanical including vintage tractors, cars and motorcycles. Along with other outdoor hobbies like hunting and trapping, Ray enjoyed attending auctions and collecting antiques.  He loved his rat terrier dogs, all named Joey.  He especially enjoyed when his nieces and nephews would visit him on the farm, help with the chores and share some laughs.
Ray passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at Elm Crest Retirement Home in Harlan, attaining the age of ninety-two years, two months, and 13 days. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Edward Pitsch.
He is survived by his sister, Theresa Wilwerding of Omaha, Nebraska; nieces and nephews, other family members, and friends.
An 11:00AM Mass of Christian Burial was officiated by Reverend Michael Antoh on Friday, June 26, 2026 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church  in Portsmouth, Iowa. Joe Wilwerding, Mike Shreves, Brian Shreves, Nathan Dinges, Wayne Dinges, and Dave Wilwerding served as casket bearers. Military Rites with Interment was held following the service and was performed by the Portsmouth American Legion Post No. 547 at the St. Mary’s Cemetery in Portsmouth, Iowa.
Pauley Jones Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.