EUSTIS - Gilbert Rieker, 88, of Eustis died Jan. 18, 2009, at the Elwood Care Center in Elwood.

He was born April 13, 1920, at Eustis, to Edward and Edna Bick Rieker. He graduated from Eustis High School in 1938.

In January of 1942, Gilbert entered the U.S. Army where he served in World War II. He was stationed several places in Europe including Germany, France and England before being discharged in December of 1945. Following his discharge, he made his home in Eustis where he farmed.

On May 16, 1948, he married Nadine E. Whisler at Eustis. The couple made their home on a farm northwest of Eustis where they lived for 40 years. In 1987, the couple moved to town. Nadine preceded Gilbert in death in 2001.

On Nov. 29, 2003, he married Shirley Fochman Booker at Callaway. The couple made their home in Eustis.

Maintaining family ties was one of Gilbert's highest priorities. He cherished the time spent with his children and grandchildren. He was proud to be a farmer, was a great steward of God's creation and was never too busy to help others. His love for his country and community was reflected in his dedication to maintaining an active Eustis American Legion post. Gilbert enjoyed helping with many community events and projects - one of his favorites was making noodles to raise funds for the Eustis Senior Center. For Gilbert, Sundays were for church, even when it meant getting there in a wheelchair. Throughout his 14 month illness, Gilbert's optimistic attitude was unwavering and he was never without his sense of humor. He brought joy to those around him with his mischievous smile and teasing manner until the moment God lead him home.

He was also preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley of Eustis; two sons, Edward Rieker of North Platte, Alan (Toni) Rieker of Eustis; three daughters, Kathleen (Dan) Becker of Peoria, Ill., Janet (Tom) Nyffeler of Stromsburg, Jacqueline (John) Burn of Roundup, Mont.; four step-daughters, Sharon (Lee Wayne) Knepp of Callaway, Beverly (Oliver) Dawson and Phyllis (Chuck) Lynch all of North Platte, Gaylene (David) Nelson of Oconto; brother, Kenneth (Lois) Rieker of Gothenburg; 15 grandchildren, Scott, John, Benjamin, Kelli, Jacqueline, Jonathan, Paul, Barbara, J.J., Jeremy, Jessica, Ashton, Jordan, Braden and Preston; 14 step- grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; 15 step-great grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

A memorial has been established in his memory or to the donor's choice. Condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com.

Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. Friday at the United Methodist Church in Eustis with Pastor Tess Hufford officiating. Burial with military honors will be at 9 a.m. Friday, Jan. 23, 2009, at the Fort McPherson National Cemetery at Maxwell.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the United Methodist Church in Eustis. Berryman Funeral Home in Cozad is in charge of arrangements.

North Platte Telegraph, 21 Jan 2009