Jimmy Ray Pietz

 Jimmy Ray Pietz, age 79 was called to his heavenly home on Friday, June 28, 2024. Visitation will be 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., with a 7 p.m. prayer service, Monday, July 1, at Friedens Reformed Church in Tripp. Funeral service begins 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 2 at Friedens Reformed. Interment will be at Grace Hill Cemetery in Tripp. 

Jimmy Ray Pietz was born December 20, 1944 as the eldest son of Edwin and Violet (Fuerst) Pietz. Later, he was joined by brothers, Dennis, Larry, Kenny and Roger. He was raised on the family farm just north of Tripp. He often talked about doing farm work with a team of horses in the early years. He graduated from Tripp High School where he loved participating in both football and basketball. He met his wife to be, Marilyn, during high school. They were married March 28, 1964. They were blessed with three girls, Konnie, Kristie and Karla. 

Jimmy and Marilyn began their married life northeast of Tripp. They spent 41 years farming together where they milked cows, raised pigs, and tended to their crops. Jimmy loved his life on the farm. 

Jimmy and Marilyn moved to town in 2007 where they enjoyed their retirement years together. During this time, Jimmy loved to ride his tractor and he would often be seen checking out the grass hay at the farm. He found great pride watching his youngest grandson cut and bale his grass hay. He also enjoyed watching the garden grow and assisting Marilyn with the canning. He enjoyed the fruits of their labor all winter long. Another of Jimmy's greatest joys was playing cards and visiting with friends. He also loved to watch sports on TV. 

Jimmy is survived by his three daughters, Konnie (Gary) Soukup, Scotland, SD, Kristie (Merald) Gall, Tripp, SD and Karla (John) Koons, Mitchell, SD; three grandson, Coleman (Nikki) Koons, Carter Koons and Colby Soukup; three step-grandchildren, Stacy (Terry) Klumker, JJ Gall and Jamie (David) Ash; nine step-great-grandchildren Angelique, Xzavier, Mekiah, Jaida, Brooklyn, Emma, Devon, Elyce and Ellysa; and one step-great-great-grandson, Kholston; his siblings, Dennis (Shirley) Pietz, Larry (Sharon) Pietz, Kenny (Charlene) Pietz and Roger (Lori) Pietz; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Darlis (Clint) Kaser, Janice (Verne) Twitero, Merlin (Sharon) Stillman and Doreen (Pat) Adams; as well many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn; his parents, Edwin and Violet Pietz; his father and mother-in-law, Elmer and Beata Stillman.