Hilda Grace "Tinker" Rautenberg, a beloved resident of Dallas, TX, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2024, at the age of 96. Born on May 22, 1928, in Gainesville, TX, she spent most of her early years in Denton, TX. Tinker attended the University of North Texas, where she majored in Music, setting the stage for a life filled with the joy of song.
Her love of music led her to extraordinary experiences, most notably as a member of the famed vocal group, "The Moonmaids," with the Vaughn Monroe Orchestra from 1946 to 1950. The group gained national recognition during USO tours and in performances across the country.
In 1951, Tinker married William G. Rautenberg (Bill), and together they made Dallas their home. They raised two wonderful daughters, Suzanne and Robin. Tinker and Bill shared 53 joyful years of marriage before his passing.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Dr. and Mrs. T.M. Cunningham; her husband, William G. Rautenberg, a former executive with Dr. Pepper; and her eldest daughter, Suzanne Duke, who passed away in 2014.
Tinker is survived by her daughter, Robin Soptich, and her husband, Alex; her grandchildren, Chris Ligon, Candice Garner, and her husband Johnathan Garner, Thomas Soptich, and Josh Soptich; great-grandchildren Madison Ligon, Chris Garner and Haley Garrigan; and her great-great-grandson, Renzo Rico.
Tinker was a devoted member of the Highland Park Presbyterian Church (HPPC) for more than six decades. She was an active member of the church choir for 52 years and contributed her talents to the chamber chorale, contemporary chorale, and various adult classes. She also served as a Deacon and Elder at HPPC, demonstrating her deep commitment to her faith community.
Her passion for music extended beyond her personal performances. She was a music educator at Fry Barer School and Preston Hollow Presbyterian Day School, and she also taught privately. For many years, she played a prominent role in the Dallas recording industry and directed the Dallas Woman’s Club Chorus.
Tinker was a proud member of Kappa Delta Sorority, the Bee & Thistle Garden Club, and served on the board of the Hillier School. Her grace, warmth, and love for others left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Her life was a beautiful symphony, rich in melody, harmony, and service to others. Tinker will be remembered for her dedication to her family, her community, and her lifelong love of music.
A visitation and service for Hilda will be held Monday, October 7, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Keller's Old Town Funeral Home & Cremation Service (220 Keller Parkway, Keller, TX 76248). Interment at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Dallas, Texas will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to La Salle High School of Yakima Music Department (3000 Lightning Way, Union Gap, WA 98903).
