Raymond Michael Bitel

Raymond Michael Bitel, aged 87, died peacefully in his sleep in Wichita on May 17, 2026.

Ray was born on August 26, 1938 in Peck, Michigan, to Polish immigrants Amelia and Vincent Bitel. He was raised on a dairy farm along with nine brothers and sisters, where he learned the value of hard work and dedication. Ray studied at Radio Electronic and Television School in Detroit, and upon graduation began a long career at Boeing in Seattle, WA, where he met the love of his life, Sue Ann (Gumerman) Bitel, marrying her in 1961.

Ray and Sue moved frequently with Boeing on various military and commercial projects throughout the United States, finally settling in Derby, Kansas, where they lived since 1980. Ray retired from Boeing after a career of 37 years. He enjoyed playing golf, softball, traveling, working around the house, and was a lifelong sports fan. Ray volunteered to work on the restoration of the B-29 "Doc" bomber, as well as at Botanica. Ray was a member of the St. Mary's Knights of Columbus, and often volunteered at St. Mary's church and school.

Ray and Sue had two children, Scott Michael Bitel of McPherson, KS; and Shelley Marie (Bitel) Casagrande and son-in-law Steven Casagrande of Breckenridge, CO. Along with his brothers and sisters, Ray counted over 30 nieces and nephews.

Rosary will be held at 10:00 AM with the Funeral Mass to follow at 10:30 AM on Friday, May 22, 2026 both at St. Mary Catholic Church located at 2300 E Meadowlark Rd, Derby, KS 67037

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest that you tell someone meaningful in your life that you love them.