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Lieutenant Colonel Raymond “Ray” Falke, 98, passed away on January 14, 2026. Born February 6, 1927, in Temple, Texas, Ray learned the value of hard work at an early age, rising before dawn to deliver newspapers while attending school. At just 17, he volunteered to serve in the United States Navy during World War II, serving as a radarman aboard the USS Geneva in the Pacific Theater. He was docked in Okinawa when the war ended. Following the war, Ray continued his service in the Navy Reserve, completed high school, and attended Texas A&M University using the GI Bill. He later received a commission in the United States Air Force, serving as a bombardier and navigator during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He retired at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel after decades of honorable service across the United States. Ray was a devoted family man who shared more than 65 years of marriage with his darling wife, Martha Falke. Together, they lovingly raised their two beautiful daughters, Robin and Dawn, building a strong family life while he served his country nationwide. He was a proud member of the Alzafar Shriners, supporting the mission of the Shriners Children’s Hospitals, and remained committed to service and fellowship throughout his life. His favorite pastime was a great round of golf with friends, and he especially enjoyed chatting with players while serving as Head Marshal at the Club at Sonterra. When his grandchildren were young, he delighted in playing cards and chess, fishing, and proudly calling out referees for bad calls at their sporting events. Ray was also known for his humor and quirks. Martha famously scolded him for adding far too much hot sauce to his food and for his love of “smelly” seafood. Though he never actually shopped at Costco, Ray regularly visited on weekends, happily making a meal out of free samples. His daughters were fiercely protective of him—monitoring his food and whereabouts so closely that Ray jokingly warned his son-in-law Ernesto that he’d better hope Ray lived a long time, because Ernesto would be “next.” He is survived by his daughters, Robin Ancira (Ernesto) and Dawn Campitelli (Tom); grandchildren April Ancira (Jason Thompson), Ashley Ancira (Ryan Richardson), and Corbin Campitelli (Morgan); and seven great-grandchildren, Gunnar, Hope, Henry, Savannah, Kylie, Landry, and Calloway. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Martha Falke; his parents Carl and Louise Falke; his sister Gertrude Haedge; and his brother Gilbert Falke. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to those who provided compassionate care in his final months, including the staffs of Walter Reed, MIC, BAMC, and the dedicated team at the Franklin Center, as well as the Red Shirts, whose friendship, generosity, and great hearts brought him renewed joy. Lt. Col. Falke’s life was defined by service, love of family, humor, and honor. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. In leu of flowers , donations can be made to the Shriners Children’s hospital.

Tributes

Lieutenant Colonel Raymond Raymond "Ray" Falke

February 6, 1927 - January 14, 2026