Clifton Arthur Raeke

Clifton Arthur Raeke, age 97, passed away on Thursday, March 2. He was a life-long resident of Gonzales County, Texas, having been born in the family home close to Cost on October 26, 1919, to Lydia Froehner Raeke and Arthur August Raeke.

Farming was in his blood. Clifton was fortunate to have had a career that he loved, and he was still working on the farm a few months before he fell ill in the winter.

He is survived by his son, John Clifton Raeke, of Cost; daughter, Patricia Raeke Bale, and son-in-law, Rick, of Columbus, Ohio; grandchildren Atalie Christine, Caleb Clifton, and Josiah Asher Bale; and many cousins and friends. Clifton was a faithful member of Monthalia United Methodist Church where he served in many capacities through the years.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Doris; grand-daughter, Elissa Joelle Bale; his parents and sister, Ida Mae Raeke

Friends may call 5-7 p.m., Monday, March 13, at Seydler-Hill Funeral Home. The funeral service will take place at Monthalia United Methodist Church on Tuesday, March 14, 10:30 a.m., Rev. Paul Smith and Rev. Paul Beard officiating. Interment will be in the Monthalia United Methodist Cemetery. Memorials may be made in Clifton’s name to Lighthouse 2911, P.O. Box 852, Yoakum, TX 77995. Arrangements under the care and direction of Seydler-Hill Funeral Home, Gonzales.