Elmer J. Riech

Elmer was born on December 15, 1939, in Springfield, the son of Elmer and Martha (Kalinauska) Riech.

He graduated from St. James Trade School and retired as the building superintendent for the State Journal-Register for over 30 years. Elmer was a member of St. Cabrini Catholic Church. He enjoyed fishing and hunting. Loving the Lord and raising four sons were his joys in life.

Elmer was preceded in death by his parents; the mother of his four children, Judy; son, Robert “Bob” Riech; and grandson, Nick Riech.

He is survived by his sons, Paul Riech of Springfield, John (Cheryl) Riech of St. Elmo, and Thomas “Tom” (Dena) Riech of Springfield; grandchildren, Michael, Brandon (Elyse), Andy, Megan, and Sarah Riech, and Nikole Yates; great-grandchildren, Grace, Lakyn and Hudson; sisters, Delores Foley and Eleanor Matrisch, both of Springfield; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation: Family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 13, 2022, at Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield. Visitation will begin with prayers at 4:00 p.m. Illinois COVID-19 guidance will be followed, requiring face coverings.

Funeral Mass: 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 14, 2022, at St. Cabrini Catholic Church, 1020 N. Milton Ave., Springfield, IL, with Rev. George Nellikunnel, S.A.C. officiating. Illinois COVID-19 guidance will be followed, requiring face coverings.

Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 75817, Topeka, KS 66675.