Obituary of F.I. Rakestraw

F.I Rakestraw Jr. was born in Byars Oklahoma January 21st, 1921. He passed into heaven on September 16th, 2010 at the age of 89 years. F.I. was affectionately called Daddy, Grandpa and Nailbender by those who loved him. F.I. was an extraordinary man that led an extraordinary life. He was a builder and owner of Rakestraw Construction and KJKG Inc. F.I. built many of the houses and commercial buildings in Weslaco and surrounding areas of the Rio Grande Valley. He was known for the quality of his work. F.I. learned to fly airplanes as a young man in the Army. This would lead to a love for flying. At one time F.I. had his own plane and loved to take his children and Grandchildren flying. F.I. also loved to play Golf. In his later years, he really enjoyed watching Golf and would often draw his family into whatever game he was watching. Over many years F.I. spent a great deal of time hunting Whitetail Deer. This was probably his favorite thing to do. He enjoyed hunting with his Sons, Grandsons and Great-Grandsons. This will always be a special memory for these men and boys. F.I. had a way of loving his family and friends that was special. He loved in simple ways that made an impact on many people. During the last five years, F.I. lived in Houston, Texas and took care of his wife Edith. During these years he gave of his life sacrificially and lovingly to Edith. He was so Thankful for the 68 years they were married. F.I. was a Christian and loved to tell his family how thankful he was for all God had done for him. Two weeks prior to his death, he told his oldest Grandson that he and Grandma were going to take a trip. When asked what he meant, F.I. smiled and pointed up. “To be absent from the body for F.I., is to be present with the Lord. F.I. is preceded in death by his Parents, nine Brothers and Sisters and one Great-Grandson. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Edith Josephine Rakestraw, Children; Kathy Crow and her husband Bill, Janet Ault and her husband Buddy, Ken Rakestraw and his wife Irma and Gary Rakestraw and his wife Kathy. Grandchildren; Mark Roach, Kevin Ault, Brian Ault, Rusty Ault, Scott Rakestraw, Kristin Rakestraw, David Rakestraw, Hannah Rakestraw and Great-Grandchildren; Cameron Roach, Collin Roach, Evan Roach, Caroline Roach, Erin Roach, Brandon Ault, Ryan Ault, Katie Ault and Greta Ault. Memorial Services will be held at Clayton Funeral Home on Sunday, September 19, 2010 at 2:00 pm. Entombment will take place at Houston National Cemetery at a later date.