Robert L. Riegel

March 18, 1944 – July 10, 2025

Robert Lynn Riegel, 81, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on March 18, 1944, Robert was the beloved son of the late Lawerence Edward Riegel and Clara Belle Riegel (Howard). He was a proud graduate of Linden McKinley High School, class of 1963. With his deep love for his country, he proudly served honorably in the Ohio Army National Guard. Robert worked for many years at Westinghouse and later retired from Emerson Corporation as a fine line welder, where he was known for his dedication, reliability, and strong work ethic.

Robert was a man of quiet strength and gentle wisdom. He found his greatest happiness in time spent with his family, who will forever remember his kind heart, calm spirit, and steady presence. Robert enjoyed music and loved sharing songs with anyone that wanted to listen. He had a song lyric for any situation and wasn’t shy to sing them out loud. Robert enjoyed building things with his hands and also enjoyed taking photographs. He was very creative as well as innovative. He built more than just things—he built a life full of intention, and that is what will remain in the hearts of those who loved him.

He is survived by his sons Chad Riegel and Brian Riegel; daughter Crystal Italiani; brother Gary Riegel; grandchildren Chad-David Riegel, Sean Riegel, Dylan Osborne, Anthony Patton, David Naka, and Nicole Italiani; great-grandson Jordy McCoy; nephew Jamison Riegel; Jamison’s children Tyler Riegel and Theresa Riegel; and Theresa’s children, Emmitt Canon; Cecilia Canon and his girlfriend Eileen Deible.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Lawerence Riegel and Clara Belle Riegel (Howard). brother William Riegel and William’s wife, Patricia Riegel; granddaughter Cecilia-Angelina Riegel; niece Jennifer Riegel; and former wives Marlyn Riegel and Deborah Blantz (Smith).

Robert’s love and influence extended deeply into the lives of those around him, and his legacy will continue through the generations he helped raise, support, and inspire.

A visitation for Robert will be held Friday, August 1, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services by Schoedinger b, 5554 Karl Road, Columbus, OH 43229. A funeral service will occur Friday, August 1, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5554 Karl Road, Columbus, OH 43229. A final resting place will occur at Fancher Cemetery, Fancher Rd, Westerville, OH 43082.