Maurine B. Riedl

Maurine B. Riedl, age 86, passed away Tuesday, November 15, 2011. Born July 8, 1925 in Breckwalker, Texas (near San Antonio), Maurine was the second child of Walter and Ruth Brown. Maurine grew up in West Texas with older sister Norma and younger brother Gene Allen in the days of the Gulf Oil camps.

In her youth Maurine (known endearingly as Reenee) studied piano, was a tumbler, and found a genuine talent for office skills, winning competitions in shorthand and speed typing. Early on, these skills and her strong work ethic set her apart and brought special recognition for her character and dedication.

Maurine and Alfred Riedl were married April 11, 1949, beginning a new journey as a military couple with tours of duty on numerous Army posts in the United States and Europe. Children Eric and Cheryl were born during tours in Berlin, Germany and Fort Hood, Texas, respectively.

During the tours in Germany, Maurine developed a love for Bavarian antiques and Hummel collectibles, interests that remained with her for the rest of her life. Some will recognize the development of another important theme in Maurine's life: shopping.

Following Alfred's retirement from the US Army after a successful career, the family returned to Houston, Texas. Unfortunately, Alfred died soon after retirement and Maurine began her career in education at Houston Independent School District Administration Building.

Once again, Maurine's skills and dedication were recognized, providing her with the opportunity to advance her career with the newly created Houston Community College, becoming one of the first ten original employees.

Maurine enjoyed a long career at the College, with many challenging assignments, working with Dr Robert B. Mulcahy until her retirement in 1997. Maurine was especially proud of her involvement from the beginning and the ongoing growth and success of college..

Maurine enjoyed many enduring friendships, from childhood to retirement. Her friends remember her for her loyalty and support, personally and professionally, through all of life's challenges. Maurine appreciated their support for her, too, as she went through her own life challenges.

Maurine's character and relationships were marked loyalty, dedication, support and nurturing, responsiveness, and concern for others. She showed a seriousness of purpose and a willingness to mentor those who wanted to advance their own careers.

Maurine enjoyed celebrating many special occasions with family and friends. Her favorite season was around Christmas, beginning with friends (Janet and Mary) at Dickens on the Strand in Galveston, Texas, and culminating at Christmas with Judy, Gene and the Brown Family.

Maurine's great friend Nena was a companion in crime and shopping for many years, and they provided special support to each other through the passage of time.

The family would like to express their appreciation for the outpouring of love and support from those who knew and loved her.

In the end, Maurine's friends and family are the final reflection of a life well lived, a life with accomplishment and meaning, and filled with love.

She was preceded in death by her husband Alfred E. Riedl, Jr., sister Norma C. Wallace, and brother Gene A. Brown. She is survived by her children Eric and Cheryl; daughter-in-law, Kay; and her grandchildren Kate and Paul; sister-in-law, Judy Brown, and numerous other loving relatives and friends. A beloved mother, a true friend to many will be missed.

Friends are invited to a gathering with the family from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Saturday, November 19, 2011 at Earthman Bellaire Funeral Home, 6700 Ferris. Maurine will be buried in a future ceremony with her late husband Alfred at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you consider a memorial donation to the American Lung Association in the name of Maurine B. Riedl. Please follow this link to make a donation https://secure3.convio.net/ala/site/Donation2?df_id=1360&1360.donation=form1