Ray Edwin Ditzfeld

Ray Edwin Ditzfeld, Sr., 82, of Sedalia, passed away Thursday, June 11, 2026, at University Hospital in Columbia.

He was born January 5, 1944, in Sweet Springs, a son of the late Raymond and Martha (Allcorn) Ditzfeld. On June 14, 1968, at Goodwill Chapel, he was united in marriage to Phyllis Pummill, who survives of the home.

Ray grew up in Sweet Springs before moving with his family to Sedalia prior to his senior year of high school. He was a 1961 graduate of Smith-Cotton High School.

Throughout his life, Ray worked in a variety of roles, including Co-Op, where he served area farmers, as maintenance supervisor for Sedalia Parks & Recreation, and with the Pettis County Sheriff’s Department. He retired as building and grounds maintenance manager for Columbia Insurance Group.

In his younger years, Ray enjoyed playing recreational slow-pitch softball. He was a NASCAR fan and especially enjoyed cheering for Carl Edwards. Gifted mechanically, Ray took pride in restoring antique tractors and enjoyed working in his garden, especially raising tomatoes. He also loved listening to classic country music.

In addition to his wife, Phyllis, survivors include two sons, Ray Edwin “Bud” Ditzfeld, Jr. (Marlo), of Sedalia, and Jeffrey Scott Ditzfeld (Jennifer), of Columbia; a sister, Marilyn June Thomas (Ray), of Columbia; along with grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Pearl Catherine Hayes.

Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 15, 2026, at Heckart Funeral Home, with funeral services following at 12:00 p.m. Pastor Debbie Arvelo will officiate.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Sedalia Animal Shelter “Trooper Fund,” in care of Heckart Funeral Home.