Jim Riedel

RANDOLPH — Funeral service for Jim Riedel, 89, Randolph, were May 29 at the First United Methodist Church, Randolph. Officiating the service was Pastor Judy Carlson. Burial was at Prospect View Cemetery, rural Pierce. Visitation was Thursday, also at the First United Methodist Church. Military rites were conducted at the cemetery by the Tomek-Otto Post 72 American Legion of Pierce and the United States Army Honors Guard. Stonacek Funeral Chapel was in charge of the arrangements. Jim died May 24, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family. Jim was born March 28, 1937, to Henry and Lillian (Silhacek) Riedel. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from February 1957 to 1959 as a member of the 101st Airborne Division. He married Sharon Flesner May 10, 1960, in Pierce. Following their marriage, they lived in several communities before eventually making their home in Randolph. After his military service, Jim and Sharon owned and operated a local grocery store for 24 years, becoming a valued part of the Randolph community before retiring.

Jim was deeply involved in community service, volunteering with the Randolph Fire Department for 27 years and actively participating in the VFW. In 2017, he was honored with the Outdoor Sportsman Award from Pheasants Forever. Jim enjoyed working with his brothers to raise produce on the family farm and had a deep love for the outdoors. He spent many years hunting, fishing, and golfing. If Jim wasn’t outdoors, you could often find him playing cards or shooting pool. He greatly cherished time with his family — whether on fishing trips, annual cabin vacations, holidays, or quiet Sunday afternoons filled with laughter and card games.

Survivors include his wife, Sharon (Flesner), Randolph; sons, Scott (Deb) Riedel, Norfolk, and Glen (Tammy) Riedel, Lincoln; daughter, Jami (Bill) Fye, Randolph; 12 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; sister, Delores O’Neal; brother, Val (Suzanne) Riedel; sister-in-law, Janet Riedel; along with many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Lillian Riedel; son, Clayton Riedel; brother, Robert Riedel; and his parents-in-law, Ben and Tollie Flesner; as well as several brothers- and sisters-in-law.

Jim will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love of family, and the countless friendships he built throughout his life.