Richard William Lutzelman, age 82, passed away January 15, 2025, in Plano, Texas.  He was born on July 3, 1942, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to his loving parents Robert William Lutzelman and Wilma Magdeline (Bokowski) Lutzelman.

Richard grew up in Cedar Rapids. During high school, he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. He continued his post-secondary education at Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa, earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration.  After college, Richard proudly served in the United States Army. He entered Officer Candidate School at Fort Lee, Virginia in the Quartermaster program, and was commissioned as Second Lieutenant. Richard was stationed in Saigon as an Exchange Officer. He was promoted to First Lieutenant serving as Liaison Officer and Customs Inspector of Saigon Port. In 1969, Richard was honorably discharged and later served in the United States Army Reserves.

Through mutual friends in Kansas City, Kansas, he met the love of his life, Grata Bariso. In 1975, they celebrated their love and commitment to each other, in Cedar Rapids.  Shortly after their wedding, Richard and Grata relocated to Omaha, Nebraska, where Richard and Grata were blessed with the birth of their son, Jon. In 1983, they made the move to Plano, Texas, where they would eventually settle. 

Throughout his career, Richard worked as a software engineer in the I.T. industry, supporting his family with dedication and expertise. He and Grata have been long-time members of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Plano, Texas, where they have been active for over forty years. 

Richard will be remembered as a devoted father, husband, and a wonderful brother.  He is survived by his beloved wife, Grata Lutzelman, of Plano, Texas; son, Jon Lutzelman, also of Plano, Texas; sister, Cathy McMahon, of Pensacola, Florida; and a host of extended family members, colleagues, and friends, who will miss him and forever cherish his memory.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Wilma Lutzelman.

A memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2700 West Spring Creek Parkway, Plano, Texas 75023. The service will also be live streamed at the following link:  https://youtube.com/live/q16cGYUHKcE?feature=share