Harry John Riehle passed into the arms of his Savior, at the age of 84 on May 25, 2023 in Spokane Valley Washington after losing his last repeated battle with cancer. Harry is survived by his children, brothers Darrel and Dennis, and sister Josephine Kirkpatrick, eight grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Jeannette, and brothers Wallace and Leroy.
He was born in the doctor’s spare bedroom in Reardan, WA on January 11, 1939 to parents Albert and Pauline Riehle. He spent his childhood on a farm in Oregon City, OR and then later attended Oregon State University. After college, he served in the army and during that time received his Master’s degree. He then moved back to Washington and finished his service in the Air National Guard. Harry then met and married Jeannette Johnson on April 2, 1966. Together they had three children—Joy (Greg) Westberg, Adin (Cami) Riehle and Lee (Brandee) Riehle.
Harry continued his service to his country and community while working for the USDA with the Social Conservation Service – later renamed the Natural Resources Conservation Service. He worked alongside farmers first in Washington State, then Idaho, Utah, Colorado and then back to Washington State. He was serving as the Washington State Agronomist when he retired after a 35-year career. In retirement he loved traveling with his wife and serving his community through mission trips, Kiwanis club, and the Gideons. He especially loved visiting family and his grandkids. He was always quick to jump in with the grandkids' activities – whether it be cheering the kids on at their games, judging at speech competitions, or giving 4 wheeler rides at “Grammy & Umpa’s” house.
Harry had a faith that was expressed through his actions. He was generous with his time and talents while serving at church, at volunteer organizations, and generally wherever he went. He was always ready to lend a helping hand. He had a ready smile and loved to chat with a cup of coffee in hand. Harry will be missed but not forgotten by those whose lives he touched.
A celebration of life will be held June 2 at 11 AM at the Spokane Valley Church of the Nazarene in Spokane Valley. In lieu of flowers donations may in Harry’s honor to Spokane Valley Church of the Nazarene, Kiwanis International, or Gideons International.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.BallandDodd.com for the Riehle family.
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