Announcing the 2008 Helias Hall of Fame presented for outstanding achievement and service to Helias High School.

Ray Hentges '56

Ray Hentges was born in Jefferson City and is a 1956 graduate of St. Peter's High School. Ray attended Lincoln University and graduated with a bachelor's degree in education in 1961. He received a master's degree in biology from the University of Wisconsin in 1980. Ray married the former Marilyn Hottmeyer in 1962, and they are parents of LeAnn, Chris, Susie, Janie and Michael all of whom graduated from Helias High School. Ray and Marilyn are also the proud grandparents of 16 grandchildren.

Ray has been very involved in his parish, Immaculate Conception where he has served as communion minister, lector, parish council member, retreat team, RCIA, and has assisted with fundraising efforts for church building projects.

Ray has dedicated more than 40 years of his life to teaching and coaching at Helias. He joined the Helias faculty in 1964 after teaching at School of the Osage for 3 years, and he is still providing spiritual and mental guidance to students. Ray founded the Helias chapter of Fellowship of Christian Athletes in the 1970's. He has taught biology, physical science, and is currently teaching Christian Lifestyles and Christian Service. His tenure as golf coach spanned 37 years with 3 State Championships. Ray coached football for 33 years where his teams compiled a 252-99-3 record including 2 state championships. He also served as Athletic Director from 1967-1995. Ray retired from coaching football and golf but he continues to teach his religion classes. Ray initiated and continues to facilitate the successful NFL booster raffle which has raised $500,000 for the athletic department over the past 10 years.

He is a genuinely kind and humble man of faith who finds his glass "half full." He is always there with a helping hand, encouraging word and a friendly smile to help all those he encounters in life. He has been an extraordinary role model to thousands.

"Ray Hentges is Helias High School. He continues to serve the school with enthusiasm and humility...a loyal Crusader, who for more than 40 years, has represented Helias with character and class."