Darrell was born in Houston May 10, 1948, to Darrell David “Dave” Rau Sr. and Evelyn Lichey Rau.

He grew up in Columbus and graduated from Columbus High School. Darrell attended Texas Lutheran College on an academic scholarship and completed his education at the University of Texas in Austin. He bled burnt orange and was a lifetime member of the Texas Exes.

Darrell spent most of his adult life in Columbus working as a registered land surveyor and was owner of Rau Surveying. He loved the outdoors and loved his profession. He took great pride in it.

Darrell loved spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was an expert marksman. He also took great pleasure in watching old westerns, golf and football. He was an avid deer hunter most of his life, but in later years received more satisfaction from watching and nurturing all animals, large and small.

His tender heart was unmatched by any man.

His legacy to his family will be his kind heart and 777 Ranch in Brady, Texas, where he worked to create a habitat for all animals and taught his family valuable life lessons.

Survivors include his sister Diane Rau Shifflett; nephew, Blake Edward Shifflett and wife, Lindsay; and great-niece, Brynlynn Marie Shifflett who always brought a smile to his face.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation was Thursday, Aug. 31, 2023, at Henneke Funeral Home, 1515 Montezuma St. in Columbus.

A graveside service was Friday, Sept. 1, 2023, at Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery in Columbus with the Rev. Alan Kethan officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Paul Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 267, Columbus, TX 78934; PUPS, 1884 Bostik Road, Cat Spring, TX 78933; or an animal shelter of your choice.

Online condolences may be given at www. hennekefuneralhome. com.