Inga Riekena

Inga Riekena, 89, of Mapleton, Illinois, died Tuesday, November 8, 2011 at her residence. She was born August 6, 1922 in Lysaker, Norway. She was the daughter of Sigurd and Aagot (Horn) Norman. She married Chris Riekena on April 25, 1943 in Temple, Texas. He preceded her in death on June 22, 2007 in Peoria, Illinois. Inga was also preceded in death by her only brother, Tom Norman and her sister, Anna Giske.

She is survived by four daughters, Jan (Eldon)Wherley, Gloria Overturf both of Glasford, Illinois, Christine Notary of Peoria, Terri (Kevin) Hartseil of Morton, Illinois. She has four sons, Norm (Angie) Riekena of St. Peters, Missouri, Ron (Lori) Riekena of Peoria, Illinois, Randy (Cindi) Riekena of Edwardsville, Illinois, Alan (Nancy) Riekena of Dunlap, Illinois. There also are 26 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren surviving. She has two sisters living, Kate Rossellini of Seattle, Washington, and Grace Simon of Portland, Oregon. There are numerous nieces and nephews.

Inga was a loving, giving mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. She was a mentor, teacher, and wonderful example for every young person who knew her. Her wit and sense of humor were enjoyed by everyone. Inga was a homemaker until her youngest was in school, then she became a secretary for the Independent Steel Workers Alliance at Keystone Steel & Wire Company, retiring after 19 years to enjoy retirement with her husband and best friend, Chris. Inga was a faithful member of St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church of rural Glasford.

The family would like to thank all of her caregivers during her illness.

A Memorial Service will be at 11:00 AM Monday, November 14, 2011 at St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church. The Rev. Jill Flynn will officiate. A memorial visitation will be from 2 until 4 PM on Sunday at the Davison Fulton Bartonville Chapel. Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorials may be made to her Church, Methodist Hospice, or the Alzheimer Association. You may view Inga’s life story at www.davison-fulton-bartonvillechapel.com.