Obituary

Gladys Adeline Rieke, 95, died Friday, December 4th at Lakeside Garden in Lynden, Washington. She was born November 13, 1920 in Genesee, Idaho to Hugo and Barbara Gehrke. Gladys attended college at the University of Idaho, and while there she met Robert V. Rieke. They were married June 18, 1939 in Genesee. To this union were born two sons: Rev. Robert D. (Sharon) of Blaine, Washington, and Rev. Daniel A, (Tracy) of Wenatchee, Washington. Accepting a call to establish a Lutheran parish in south Seattle, Robert V. and Gladys were a ministry team growing and serving Glendale Evangelical Lutheran Church for forty years. Gladys was adept at organizing, and leading, and was the piano player for the new church. Her creative ability and numerous talents were in great measure responsible for Glendale’s successful ministry. With her sons well on their life journey, Gladys went back to college and graduated with a Masters degree in Education from University of Washington. Three tassels hung on the rear view mirror of the Rieke Ford in 1965. Dan graduating from Highline High School. Bob graduating from Highline Community College and Mom from UW. Gladys went on to teach English at Seahurst Junior High for sixteen years. In early retirement she coordinated and joined husband Bob in leading worldwide Globus Tours. The next portion of life’s journey Gladys and Robert divided time between Roadhaven in Phoenix, Arizona, and Kent, Washington. Finally moving to Bellingham, Washington to be near son Bob who was serving a parish in Blaine. After 69 years of marriage, Robert V. died in 2008. Gladys continued to live at Merrill Gardens in Bellingham until moving in 2011 to Lakeside Garden in Lynden. Gladys was energetic and inquisitive, a life-long learner and teacher. She loved her God, her family, and her church.

Our deepest appreciation to all who blessed Mom’s journey, especially the loving care-givers at Lakeside Garden: Darla, Doug, Kelly, Roxanne, Amanda, Tracy, Jill, Emily, and Chiane and to Whatcom County Hospice. Memorial gifts can be given to the Interfaith Coalition.

The celebration of Gladys’ life is Saturday, December 12th at Faith Lutheran Church 2750 McLeod Rd in Bellingham. Visitation is at 10:00AM followed by Worship at 11:00AM with a video presentation and luncheon to follow.