Raymond Stuart Betz

Raymond “Ray” Stuart Betz, age 82, of Johnston, Iowa, passed away on January 31, 2026.

Ray was born on January 5, 1944, in Johnston, Iowa, to Robert Henry Betz and Virginia Amanda (Stuart) Betz. He grew up on the family farm, where his childhood was spent playing in the dirt, eating gooeyburgers, and learning a humility and quiet steadiness that stayed with him throughout his life. Ray spent his entire life in Johnston, rooted in the community he proudly called home.

On February 10, 1968, Ray married Beverly Burger in Johnston, Iowa. Together they built a life centered on family, consistency, and shared history.

Ray worked the family farm until 1996, when the expansion of Camp Dodge led to the farm being taken under eminent domain. After that chapter closed, Ray joined Freightliner of Des Moines, where he enjoyed delivering parts and staying active, work that suited his practical nature and quiet pride.

When the weather was nice, Ray could often be found in his shed, working on his tractors. He loved going on the Great Iowa Tractor Ride, which he considered his favorite (only) vacation. Ray took pride in sharing his love of tractors with his family and knew that grandson Henry would be a great driver. When it was cold, he and Bev would hunker down inside and watch Gunsmoke together.

He is survived by his wife, Bev; his children, Steve (David Vanderlinden), Emily, and Brandon (Molly); and his beloved grandsons, Harry and Henry. He is also survived by his siblings, Marjorie Austin, Virginia McGinn, Judith Bogaard, and Robert Betz, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Virginia Betz, and his brother, Richard Betz.

Services will be held on Thursday, February 5, at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, 8201 Hickman Road, Urbandale, Iowa. Visitation will begin at 4:00 p.m., followed by the service at 5:00 p.m. Coffee and cookies will be served after.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Central Iowa Tractor Club, 2269 H Ave., Woodward, Iowa 50276.