Bernard “Bernie” Riedl, 88, died on Tuesday, October 5, 2021 at his residence in Sedgwick, Kansas.
Bernie was born on February 22, 1933, in Garden City, Kansas, the son of Fred and Julia (Kraisinger) Riedl. Bernie grew up with his five brothers on his family’s farm in rural Scott City, graduating from Scott Community High School in 1951.
Bernie attended Ft. Hays State University where he would earn his teaching degree in science, set several track records, and most importantly – meet his future wife, Joyce. Bernie later attended Emporia State earning his master’s degree in science education.
On July 16, 1955, Bernie was united in marriage to Joyce Anderson. The newlyweds moved into their first home in Sedgwick and began working for the Sedgwick school system.
For 36 years Bernie taught science and other various classes at Sedgwick high school and was also the senior class sponsor, planning many memorable trips throughout the years. After retiring from teaching he continued to be involved in the school as a member of the school board. Bernie would continue to run his electrical business until his retirement.
After retirement Bernie enjoyed spending time at his farm watching and riding his many horses. He also loved going on vacations to Colorado, especially enjoying the time spent in St. Elmo and the Nathrop area.
A master of general science and jack of all trades, Bernie could always be found sharing his wisdom or helping people fix things – even on vacation.
Bernie is survived by two sons and their wives, Kevin Riedl and his wife, Tracy Unruh and Kyle Riedl and his wife Sheila Riedl; grandchildren, KD Riedl, J Riedl, Dustin (Angela) Riedl, and Allison (Tanner) Hieden; his newly-born great-grandchild, Titus Hieden; son-in-law, Reverend Scott Simmons; brothers, Duane Riedl and Raymond Riedl.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Joyce Riedl; daughter, Dr. Kay Lin Riedl-Simmons; brothers, Orvall Riedl, Wilbur Riedl, and Dean Riedl; and sister, Opal Riedl.
A visitation will be from 5PM to 9PM on Thursday, October 14th at Petersen Funeral Home in Newton. A funeral service will be at 2PM, Friday, October 15th at the Sedgwick United Methodist Church in Sedgwick, Kansas, with graveside to follow at Hillside Cemetery. The family would like to invite friends to join them at the church for Bernie’s favorite treat, ice cream and cookies, following burial.
Memorial contributions in Bernie’s name made be made to the Sedgwick school system Science Department, in care of Petersen Funeral Home.
I got to talk to Mr. Reidl at a class reunion a few years ago, and thank him for the wonderful classes he taught. I loved biology. I took it Junior year. The nature walks with his outdoor lectures were the favorite part of my school day. And I still remember a lot of what he taught. Taraxacum officinale (dandelions) are all over my yard. And, whenever I eat a lobster, I remember, echinodermata, (spiny skinned) deliciousness! And the answer to the trick question on that first 6 week’s test: Bison bison. The American Bison is NOT a buffalo. Unless, you take Googles word for it. But, I’m inclined to trust Mr. Reidl on this one.
But the really really great thing about Mr. Reidl was the way he believed in everyone’s giftedness. He always liked my biology drawings. I felt encouraged. I’m sure he inspired many many others to become what they were meant to be.
Rest In Peace, Mr. Reidl.
I was fortunate to know “Mr. Riedl” at school and “Bernie” in our small community. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your loss.
My sympathies to the Riedl families. I didn’t know him well but he was a good neighbor, and helped me out several times.