Tracy Alan Friedlander, 79, died on Feb. 19, 2026, at his home in Lampasas.
He was born on Feb. 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 in Lampasas County on March 21 from 3-6 p.m. Sneed-Carnley Funeral Chapel has charge of arrangements.
Tracy grew up in Miami, Florida, where he graduated from high school.
After graduation, he joined the U.S. Army on Jan. 16, 1967, proudly serving for 13 years before retiring with the rank of E6 on Nov. 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.
Tracy's military career reflected his dedication and skill. His accomplishments included serving as a flight operations coordinator for 11 years and as a utility helicopter repairer for 12 years and 7 months. His honors 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.
On Dec. 27, 1968, Tracy married Patricia Ann Ruziskey in Miami. They shared 57 years of marriage.
Tracy enjoyed fishing, woodworking and spending time with his 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 wife, Patricia; daughter, Tammi Henderson; son, Dwayne Friedlander and wife Sandra; grandson, Jon Friedlander, and granddaughter-in-law, Jessica Cummings; grandsons Eric Wamsley and wife Zenia, and Bryan Henderson and wife Chelsea; great-grandchildren Ashtyn, Addison and Aaryn Friedlander; Janalice, Jordan and Juli Wamsley; Presley, Brystol and Beau Henderson; and a great-great-grandson, Blaine Thorp. One brother, Kevin Friedlander, and wife Karen also survive him.
Memorial donations may be made to an organization of one’s choice.
