Jeffrey Allen Raithel

Jeff Alan Raithel, 69, of Plano, Texas, passed away suddenly on Sunday, October 11, 2026. Jeff will be remembered for his lifelong friendships, adventurous spirit, strong faith, and wholehearted commitment to the people and pursuits that mattered most to him.

Jeff leaves behind his wife, Susan Raithel, of Plano, Texas; his son, Alex Raithel, of Seattle Washington; and his brother, Michael Raithel (Kathy), of Jefferson City, Missouri. He was preceded in death by his brother, Samuel Joseph Raithel, and his parents.

Jeff treasured the lifelong friendships he formed during his high school years in Jefferson City. Their group, known as the “Pole House,” built a clubhouse atop eight telephone poles—a unique place where seven young men learned about life, built lasting friendships, and created memories that would stay with them for decades. Those friendships endured through the years, with reunions and adventures in New Orleans (three times), Colorado, Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Whitefish, Montana. Jeff also maintained close friendships from his fraternity days as a Kappa Alpha at the University of Missouri–Columbia. These enduring bonds reflected his loyalty and the importance he placed on friendship.

Professionally, Jeff built a successful career in accounting and finance, serving in various CFO and controller roles. Most recently, he was CFO of Rough Creek Lodge and Resort and serves as vice president, CFO, and partner of LTS Group in Dallas, Texas.

Jeff approached life with an “all in” attitude. Whether pursuing his professional career, nurturing friendships, or taking on a physical challenge, he embraced life with energy and determination. An avid runner, hiker, and strong advocate of physical fitness, Jeff continued to seek new adventures. Most recently, on a whim and without training for the challenge, he joined several lifelong friends for the arduous rim-to-rim hike through the Grand Canyon. As one friend recalled, he wasn't sure how Jeff made it through but Jeff just kept pushing until he finished. That determination was quintessential Jeff.

Above all, Jeff's most cherished legacy was his life with Susan, his wife, and the son Alex, they raised together. Of all his accomplishments, nothing made him more proud or brought him greater joy than his only child. He also cherished a special relationship with his niece, Hannah, whom he loved like a daughter. When Hannah married Brandon he welcomed him into his heart then the blessing of Lincoln and Bennett, as his grandaughters. He was wholeheartedly devoted to his family. He and Susan were always a team, sharing life experiences and doing most all things together. They supported their extended family and helped others in need whenever they could. Guided by his strong Christian faith, Jeff sought to live a life of commitment, generosity, and care for others.

His family and many lifelong friends will carry his memory with them, grateful for the time they shared and the example he set.

A service celebrating Jeff, “one of the nice guys,” will be held on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Prestonwood Baptist Church, 6801 W. Park Boulevard, Plano, Texas 75093.