Ralph Wayne Priset, 71, passed away Wednesday, March 7, 2018 at UT Southwestern in Dallas.
Wayne was born on August 11, 1946, to Ralph Lewis and Josie Marie (Henry) Priset in Denton, TX, where he was a lifelong resident. He was married to his soulmate, Deberah (Debi) Priset for nearly 25 years. Wayne proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He retired from Peterbilt Motors in 2009 after 26 years.
Wayne and Debi shared their own special rendition of a storybook romance. When they met he was an avid country and western dancer, and she had two left feet. He told her to relax and to let him guide her, and that's how they lived their lives together; she sped him up while he slowed her down. They spent their retirement traveling, and even survived a 45-day road trip with Debi driving them across the country. They held hands the entire trip, which was how you were most likely to see them.
Wayne not only fell in love with Debi, he fell for her two children as well. Wayne was a devoted father who encouraged and celebrated both kids throughout their years together. Although he was a man of few words, he made them count, and he readily expressed his pride in his children. He even wore a University of Houston shirt to support his daughter's school.
Wayne was a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan and will be cheering them to their next Super Bowl from above.
He will be desperately missed, but Wayne left this world, and his family, better off because he was here. He was an extremely giving and kind man who always put his family before himself. Wayne was the definition of love and sacrifice.
He is survived by his wife, Debi Priset; son, Tim Mills and his fiancé Ariel Martinez, their children, his grandchildren, Luke and Melody; daughter, Tori Hendricks and her two children, Wayne's grandpups, Sophia and Sherman; John and Alison Ausmus and children, Helen and Liam, that he loved as his own.
A heartfelt appreciation to all his doctor's and medical professionals in Denton, at UT Health Northeast, UT Southwestern and Rhema Medical.
A private family service will be held at a later date.