Fred James Rieth Jr.

Fred James Rieth Jr., age 66, passed away at his home in Elkhart, surrounded by his family on January 10, 2019.  Fred was born October 18, 1952 in the Bronx, New York to Fred J. and Eileen (Lehr) Rieth. Following his graduation from George Washington High School in New York, Fred moved to Mishawka to attend Bethel College.  While at Bethel in 1976, he met Karen Alfieri.  They were later married on April 15, 1978.

Karen survives, along with their daughters Holly Rieth of South Bend, and Jamie Brown and her husband Nick of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Also surviving are his grandchildren Cohen and Juniper Brown.  Surviving as well is his mother Eileen Rieth and his sisters Luanne Murray and Donna Gallagher and her husband Andrew, all of New York City, New York.

Visitation will be held 2 hours prior to the 7:00 pm Celebration of Life service on Monday, January 14, 2019 at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola.

Fred was employed for 33 years in various positions within UPS of Elkhart before his retirement in 2007.  Fred attended Cedar Road Missionary Church in Osceola for several years.  In his younger years, he was a representative for Christian Endeavors, where he traveled throughout the US and Canada.

Fred was also an avid reader and loved to play fantasy sports. He also enjoyed bowling in leagues throughout the Michiana area for many years.  Most of all, Fred will be remembered by those who knew and loved him for his “unique” sense of humor, which will be greatly missed.

In his memory, donations may be made to Here Kitty Kitty Rescue of Elkhart.  To view his digital video tribute, light a virtual candle in his memory, or leave a word of condolence for the Rieth family, please follow the links provided on the Tribute Wall tab above.