Gladys A. Rieke
November 13, 1920 - December 04, 2015
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Gladys A. Rieke
November 13, 1920 - December 04, 2015
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.
Funeral Service
- Date & Time: December 12, 2015 (12:00 AM)
- Venue: Faith Lutheran Church
- Location: 2750 McLeod Road Bellingham, WA 98225 - (Get Directions)
Visitation
- Date & Time: December 12, 2015 (12:00 AM)
- Venue: Faith Lutheran Church
- Location: 2750 McLeod Road Bellingham, WA 98225 - (Get Directions)
9 responses to Gladys A. Rieke
ST says:
December 4, 2015
To The Family, I want to express my deepest sympathy for your loss. I also want to share the comfort of John 5:28,29 where we are promised that those who have fallen asleep in death have the hope of receiving a “resurrection” back to life. Life on an earth restored to a beautiful paradise. Psalms 37:11 says, “The meek ones themselves will possess the earth, and they will indeed find their exquisite delight in the abundance of peace.” While we await that wonderful time please find comfort in these promises. www.JW.org
Adolf Sattelberg says:
December 4, 2015
May the God of Mercy grant His Peace and Comfort to Bob, Dan, and family. We celebrate with you that Gladys is now reunited with “Pastor’ Robert in the Eternal Home Jesus has prepared for them. – Adolf
Vickie Anderson Kapphahn says:
December 4, 2015
Gladys was always friendly and welcoming. My family grew up in the church and saw Pastor and Mrs. Rieke as a great and successful ministry team. She was very talented and giving and touched many lives. My parents enjoyed a long friendship with the Riekes, including joining some of their world tours. I am sure there is a big welcome in heaven for Gladys.
Jim & Debbie Wickham says:
December 4, 2015
We’ve been members of Glendale Lutheran for many years. Pastor Bob and MRS Rieke were an important part of our Christian walk of life. I (Debbie) being confirmed. My husband (Jim) graduated from Highline HS with (Dan).
Thank you for sharing your parents with our family and know you’re in our thoughts and prayers during this time.
In Christ,
Jim,Debbie,Brandon and Ben Wickham
Phil and Ellen Nelson says:
December 4, 2015
Memories of Gladys and Pastor after their retirement as members of Prince of Peace. Her warm smile was ever present. We had such a nice time visiting them at Roadhaven. Such a wonderful life to celebrate. G3