RAPHAEL “RAY” L. ARTZ, age 77, of 221 Valley View Drive of Brillion, passed away on July 24, 2012 at his residence surrounded by his family. Ray was born on June 20, 1935 in Brillion, son of the late Sylvester “Syl” and Selma (Scharf) Artz. He was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Brillion. Ray was a graduate of Brillion High School, class of 1953, and he earned a music degree from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, class of 1957, and a master's degree in school administration from the University of Wisconsin-Superior, class of 1973. On August 6, 1972, Ray married Mary Vechart at Trinity Lutheran Church, Brillion. He had numerous jobs throughout the years including teaching in Japan, band director for Brillion High School, and elementary school principal and superintendent at the Lena Public School District. Ray loved to travel and golf in his earlier years, and read and spend time with his family. He is survived by his wife, Mary, of Brillion; their children and spouses: Jeremy (Andrea) of Grafton, Amanda of Brillion, and Benjamin (Kate) of Appleton; two grandsons: Ethan of Appleton and one due in November; mother-in-law: Geraldine Vechart of Brillion; other in-laws; nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. Ray was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Denis, and father-in-law, Donald Vechart. Funeral Services were held on Saturday, July 28, 2012 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Brillion. Officiating at the service was the Rev. Ross Henzi with burial at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Brillion. Online condolences may be made at www.wieting-funeralhome.com. Ray’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Pastor Henzi and Pastor Bourman as well as Calumet County Hospice, especially Carol and Cindy, and Bellin Home Health, for their compassion and care for Ray and the rest of his family. “I, Raphael L. Artz, commit myself to God’s care, secure in His love for me and trusting in the salvation purchased for me through Christ’s suffering and death. I leave those who survive me the comfort of knowing that I have died in this faith and have now joined my Lord in eternal glory. I ask my children, whom I love and who have brought me great joy, never to forget these instructions of Christ. Share God’s Word of salvation with everyone at home and wherever you go in this world. I commend my loved ones to the protecting arms of God, knowing that He will continue to provide for them despite my absence; and I encourage them to place their faith and trust in Him alone. May God grant you peace, love and strength as He guides you through this life.”