Tracy Alan Friedlander

Tracy Alan Friedlander, 79, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, at his home in Lampasas, Texas.  He was born on February 27, 1946, in Luzerne, Pennsylvania, to Irving and Letha Dorothy (Lee) Friedlander.  Tracy was cremated, and a celebration of his life will be held at Bar 17 Ranch, 2384 County Road 2315, Lampasas, Texas, on March 21, 2026, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Tracy grew up in Miami, Florida, where he graduated from high school.  After graduation, he joined the U.S. Army on January 16, 1967, proudly serving for 13 years before retiring with the rank of E6 on November 24, 1980.  During his service, he fought in the Vietnam War, with his last duty assignment being MHD DCH USAMEDDAC HSC HS at Fort Hood, Texas.

Tracy's military career reflected his dedication and skill.  His accomplishments included serving as a Flight Operations Coordinator (71P30) for 11 years and as a Utility Helicopter Repairer (67N30) for 12 years and 7 months.  His honors and decorations included the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with four Bronze Service Stars, Air Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal (Bronze Clasp with four Loops), Aircraft Crewman Badge, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea), Silver Star, Army Commendation Medal, and Expert Rifleman Badge.

After retiring from the Army, Tracy worked for Oil States Industries in Lampasas before becoming self-employed as a carpenter - a trade he continued until his passing.

On December 27, 1968, Tracy married the love of his life, Patricia Ann Ruziskey, in Miami, Florida.  They shared 57 years of marriage filled with love and devotion.  Tracy enjoyed fishing, woodworking, and spending time with his beloved family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Irving and Dorothy; his stepmother, Alice; brother, Howard; daughter, Lori Friedlander and his son-in-law, Denny Henderson.

Tracy is survived by his loving wife, Patricia; daughter, Tammi Henderson; son, Dwayne Friedlander, and his wife Sandra; grandson, Jon Friedlander, and granddaughter-in-law, Jessica Cummings; grandsons, Eric Wamsley and his wife Zenia, and Bryan Henderson and his wife Chelsea.  He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Ashtyn, Addison, and Aaryn Friedlander; Janalice, Jordan, and Juli Wamsley; Presley, Brystol, and Beau Henderson; and great-great-grandson, Blaine Thorp.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to an organization of your choice in Tracy's name.  They also ask that everyone honor his memory by choosing a beautiful day to spend fishing.