Ray R. Tieszen, 76,, has passed away, leaving behind a family and community who loved him dearly.
What remains is memory — and the gratitude of those he loved.
Ray's story began in 1947, and unfolded across the years that followed.
What we carry forward is the light others gave us.
Ray R. Tieszen, 76 of Marion died Saturday, February 3, 2024 at the Freeman Regional Hospital. Funeral services will be at 2:00pm Saturday, February 10, 2024 at the Bethesda Church of Marion with burial at the Tieszen Cemetery. Visitation will be an hour before services at the church. Arrangements by Hofmeister Jones Funeral Home. Ray R. Tieszen was born on March 25, 1947 to Martin and Rose (Ensz) Tieszen. He went to country school for his elementary education and attended Marion High School for his further education. Ray remained on the farm to help his father farm the land and took care of the cattle and did chores. After his mother Rose passed it became more difficult for both Ray and Martin to take care of themselves. At the age of 98, because of poor health Martin entered the Tieszen Memorial Nursing Home and Ray remained home by himself. Soon Martin realized that Ray needed a guardian. Roy Schmidt was chosen to be that person and was given power of attorney over Ray. Martin then suggested that Ray rent out the land, which Ray agreed to do. After Marin passed away in January of 2018, Ray was taken to a Sioux Falls hospital with a serious health problem. After he recovered from that he stayed at the Tieszen Memorial Home for therapy. From there he went to live at the Salem Mennonite Home in Freeman. Ray became ill with influenza B and was taken to the hospital. He asked Jesus to take him home to be with his mom, dad, and brother Donald. He passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 3, 2024. Ray was Baptized and was a lifelong member of the Bethesda Church of Marion. Rays happy moments were being outdoors and also going to the Sioux Empire and Turner County Fairs.
