Rodney (Rod) James Rieken passed away January 11, 2018 after a courageous and inspirational five-month fight for his health. He died suddenly at St. John's Mercy hospital in St. Louis, MO in the surround of his family's love and support. Rodney and his wife of 63 years, Alice M. Rieken (nee Herren) resided at 408 Bourbeuse Road in Union, MO. Born in Monticello, Iowa October 19, 1931, he counted himself blessed to be born into an extensive and honorable lineage. His parents were Johann Wilhelm and Clara Rieken (nee Zimmerman). The late Milton James Rieken of Monticello was his brother.

Rod received his early education in a one-room schoolhouse in Langworthy, Iowa. He received his Christian education and confirmation at Wayne Zion Church, Jones County Iowa. He graduated from Monticello High School in 1949 enjoying track and football. He was an exemplary student and athlete. After graduation, he worked on the family farm in rural Langworthy prior to his enlistment in the Korean War. He served as an engineer in H/S CO, 79th Combat Engineers and served between Seoul and Japan mustering out as a Corporal in 1954 with profound hearing loss.

Rod and Alice married at Wayne Zion Church November 26, 1954 officiated by Rev. Kahren. During their early-married life, Rod returned to school at Iowa State University receiving his undergraduate degree in business. Two daughters were born during the school years; Annie Rieken (Dave Van Lieshout) rural Monroe County, IL and Ruth Ratican (Roger) formerly of Orange County, CA. Lynn Boresi (Glennon), Union, MO was born in Kansas City, KS during Rod's early business career there.

In 1966, the family moved to St. Louis, MO under Rod's Civilian Service contract as a Logistician Specialist. In 1972, Rod was intrinsic to the Viet Nam conflict bugout in advance of Khemer Rouge. He received citations for Outstanding Civilian Service. From St. Louis, the couple accepted assignments abroad, continued their education, and traveled extensively. Upon return to St. Louis, the couple owned and ran Park Avenue Bed and Breakfast for six years prior to a move north for 12 years to Kirksville, MO where they invested in property renovations. They moved to Union, MO in 2013 to be nearer family. In March of 2014, the couple officially adopted their youngest daughter, Christine Winchester (Bob) of Union, thus formally bringing 20 additional family members into the fold.

Rodney was proudest of his 11 grandchildren and 12 great grand-children. Rodney was an encouraging role model; his credo was, up to the end, "Never give up. Never give up. Never give up". Cherished for his unyielding faith, his gentleness and humor he was a fun man. He was a spectacular gentleman and bearer of the fruits of the spirit. His wife, Alice; daughters Annie, Lynn and Christine and their spouses survive him. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother, a daughter and her husband, Ruth and Roger Ratican, and infant great granddaughter Zoe Manhart.

The funeral was held Tuesday, January 16, 2018 10:00 AM at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Union, MO with military honors. Burial commitment was at Wayne Zion Lutheran Church in Jones County, IA Thursday, January 18, 2018 11:00. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to Children's Advocacy, 301 East State Street, Union, MO 63084.