Gary (Gerald) V. Rieger, 71, of Reno, Nevada passed away Wednesday, January 22, at Renown South Meadows Medical Center in Reno, with his family by his side.

Gary was born to Vincent and May (Johnson) Rieger on November 14, 1942 in Rugby, ND. He was raised on the family farm near Esmond, ND. Gary began his education in a country school in Pierce County along with all of the children from neighboring farms. He graduated from Esmond High School in 1960. Gary attended Mayville State College and later transferred to Minot College of Business. He enlisted and served with the North Dakota National Guard.

Gary married Jane Batke and from this union came two sons, Troy and Curtis. They made their home in Minot. Gary worked in accounting, insurance and sales throughout his career. He also farmed with his father for a few years. He later married Cyndi Brown. After taking some time to travel around the US and experience the country, he moved to Reno, NV, where he has lived for over 25 years. As Gary would say, for the past twelve years he has enjoyed being a "gofer" for his sons and their business and "gofer Grandpa" for his grandchildren.

Gary's greatest joy was spending time with his sons and grandchildren. He often talked about their excursions into the Sierra Mountains where they would camp, fish and hike; road trips they would make; and the regular gatherings of family and friends at his sons' homes. Every summer, Gary would travel back to North Dakota to the family farm and spend several months with his siblings. They would choose a fix-up project each summer, which turned out to be more fun than work. Mornings at the farm started out with coffee on the veranda and discussions that ranged from serious to silly, but most often it was reminiscing and laughter. These are times that will forever be cherished.

His fun loving nature and great sense of humor made Gary a joy to be around. When his mother was in the nursing home in Harvey, ND, Gary moved back to the farm and stayed the duration. He made daily trips to visit her. His humor, patience and caring nature not only resonated with his mother, but also with the other residents who also looked forward to his visits. He will be missed by many, young and old.

Gary is survived by his sons, Troy and Curtis, both of Reno, NV; Grandchildren: Michael Rieger, Eric Rieger and Amber Rieger; One brother: Roger (Diane) Rieger of St. Cloud, MN;  Three sisters: Bonnie Alexander of Esmond, ND; Yvonne (Brad) Westrum of Grand Forks, ND; Cindy Wilhelm of Minot, ND; and many nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother and a niece, Andrea Rieger Hodge.

Celebration of Life Service will held in Reno for friends and family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, June 21 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Esmond, ND with Fr. Brian Bachmeier, celebrant.

Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

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