

He was born on May 21, 1933 in Runge, Texas to Herbert Moritz Riedel and Hazel Fortner Riedel. His family moved to Victoria, TX, then to Houston, TX and eventually to Fort Worth where he graduated from Polytechnic High School.
He served our country in the Army at Fort Carson, CO as a Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic during the Korean War, drafted in 1952 and honorably discharged in 1955. He went on to attend Arlington State College (now University of Texas at Arlington) while working at General Motors.
He worked as an Engineer for the US Army Corps of Engineers from 1961 until his retirement in December 1989.
He married the love of his life Peggy Ann Tipton on July 4th, 1957. They moved their family to Burleson in 1965.
He loved anything outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, and camping. He always enjoyed traveling and exploring with his family. Camping was accomplished with truck campers, motorcycles with tents, and eventually, motorhomes. Thanksgiving camping was a family favorite; he whittled hiking sticks for anyone who didn't already have one while telling stories and inspiring those around him to form a deeper love for the great outdoors. He and his wife were members of the Heart of Texas Winnebago-Itasca travel club for over 15 years where he served as Wagon Master and Club President. They managed to visit all 50 states in one vehicle or another.
He was a lifelong member of the Lutheran Church. He dedicated his free time helping friends and family in any way he could, including utilizing his extensive mechanic knowledge and woodworking skills. He was a patient teacher for any who showed an interest to learn. He always inspired those around him to seek knowledge and understanding in all aspects of life, because, as he always said, “nobody can take what’s in your mind from you”. One of his favorite lessons was "Integrity", a virtue that he tried his best to instill in all of his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Hazel Riedel, and his brother, Larry Riedel.
He is survived by his wife, Peggy Riedel, sisters Mignon Kells and Rita McCudden. Three children: Denise Miller, Vance Riedel, and Pamela Riedel Shedden. Nine grandchildren: Leona Straiton, Kimberly Terrell, Emily Burris, Adam Riedel, Elaina Riedel, Jonathan Shedden, Saretta Shedden, Alicia Shedden, and Katelyn Shedden. As well as eight great-grandchildren: Dielle, Timothy, Kylie, Courtney, Aurora, Constance, Finnley, and Bailey.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Johnson County Child Advocacy Center, 1304 Country Club Road, Cleburne, TX 76033
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