George R. Riedel

George Robert Riedel, 64, of Washington passed away on Friday, January 12, 2018 at his home. He was born December 11, 1953 to Robert and Agnes “Ann” (Kelley) Riedel in Wausau, WI. He graduated from St. Johns High School, Toledo, OH and University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point, and Illinois Central College with various degrees and skills. He was always curious and a life-long learner and recently earned his ham radio license. George is survived by his wife of 30 years, Angie and their three children, Ellen, Carolyn, and Robert. He was so proud of his kids and their accomplishments, but more importantly he was proud of the people they were becoming. George is also survived by his four sisters, Kathryn, Mary, Pat, and Nancy their families and numerous cousins; he was the favorite Uncle George. George’s life was one of serving others. He loved flying helicopters full-time as a professional pilot and part-time serving his country. He retired after 23 years at the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3 from the US Army/Army National Guard as a helicopter pilot where he flew, OH-58, AH-1, UH-1, and CH-47. He used his military training and flew helicopters off the shore of Louisiana to oil platforms and for many years as a life flight pilot here in Peoria and Cleveland, OH. When he was no longer able to fly, he worked for OSF in med-com, became a paramedic for AMT and OSF - ER and substitute taught at St. Pat’s and Holy Family on occasion. In his free time, he volunteered for many years on the Washington Rescue Squad as an EMT. More importantly he was a friend to all. George loved bringing people together whether for a one-hour beer tasting, friendly afternoon “mushball” game in the summer, deer/beer hunting in Wisconsin, soup night Christmas Eve or UWSP trivia. For the past 22 years, he authored an Annual Christmas letter which was always anticipated, but never really believed. Whenever George was involved fun was to be had. George touched so many people. The world will sorely miss this honorable, witty, adventurous man. A funeral Mass will be at held at 11:00am Saturday, January 20, 2018 at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Washington, where he was a member. Fr. Steve Willard will officiate. Visitation will be from 4-7:00pm Friday, January 19, 2018 at Deiters Funeral Home & Crematory in Washington; a rosary will be said at 6:45pm. An additional funeral Mass will be held at 11:00am Monday, January 22, 2018 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Tomahawk, WI, with military honors. Visitation will be held one hour prior at the church. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Tomahawk. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Knights of Columbus, Fr. John Menco Council #6707 or a charity of your choice. George’s memorial website is available at www.deitersfuneralhome.com, where

George R. Riedel

December 11, 1953 - January 12, 2018