Rufus John Tieken

Rufus John Tieken passed away on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at the age of 73. He was born in Floresville, Texas to Lillie Boenig Tieken and Rufus Tieken.

Shortly after high school, Rufus joined the Army Reserves and proudly served his country for several years in that capacity.

If you wanted to describe Rufus’ career it would have to be “jack of all trades”. He was self-employed most of his life. His skills as a mechanic, welder, and farmer/rancher were known throughout the county and beyond. Rufus was a one-man team on most of his projects. Out of necessity he developed the unique skill of being able to design and build tools/etc. that helped one man do the work of three or four. You might say he was an “engineer of necessity” that was respected by those that had the privilege of working with him or having him complete their projects.

Rufus was very knowledgeable about many things but as a humble man he seldom gave himself credit for his knowledge. On the other hand, nothing could put him in a foul mood faster than having to sit in the house and not be able to get out and check his cows or work on one of his projects. He was one of the hardest working men you will ever find; a true force to be reckoned with.

A big man in stature Rufus stood out more to those that knew him because of the size of his heart. He was always willing to help a friend or loved one and many times strangers that he met. In fact, no one stayed a stranger long. You could mention someone in a conversation and Rufus probably knew them or had crossed paths with them at some point.

This man of countless talents, strength and love will be greatly missed by many.

Rufus is survived by his loving wife of thirty years Arlene Mills Tieken. Surviving children are Brandi Smalley (Jeff) of Port Lavaca, Trey Tieken (Chelsea) of Boerne, Richie Allen of Adkins, Bradley Allen (Kasey) of La Vernia, and Annie Bagnato (Ben) of Floresville. Surviving grandchildren are Shelby Williams (Thomas) of Victoria, Lila Bagnato of Floresville, Kadence Smalley of Port Lavaca, Barrett Allen of La Vernia, and Greyson and Braxton Tieken of Boerne. Also surviving Rufus are sisters, Jeanette Orth Archer and Dorothy May Rechner (Eddie) of San Antonio; brother Rick Tieken (Lisa) of Floresville; and sisters-in-law, Carolyn Orth and Mata Orth of Floresville.

Rufus was preceded in death by his parents, Rufus and Lillie Tieken; brothers, Carl Orth, Leonard Orth, and Charles Tieken; and granddaughter, Brennyn Avery Smalley.

Services will be held Thursday, July 3, 2025, at Franklin Funeral Home, Floresville, Texas. Doors will open for visitation at 10:00 and the service to follow at 11:00.