More detail on this person: John Riedel joined
our Father in Heaven on the morning of June 15,
2016, at the age of 75, in Mesa, AZ. He was known
and liked by scores of people throughout the
community. He has been a familiar face at the
Queen of Peace Catholic Church over the last 43
years. For the past 25 years, he has selflessly
devoted his life to his faith and his church as a
Deacon. Deacon John, as he was known as by
many, took great pride in his role as an educator
of the catholic faith, baptizing new followers of
the faith, joining couples together in the sacred
bond of marriage, helping others and being a
friend to anyone in need, and never asking for
anything in return. John was a silent and humble
American hero. He was a Captain in the U.S. Army
and a highly decorated aviator. He served two
tours in Vietnam, flying helicopter gunships and
troop carriers on countless missions. He received
some of our nations highest military awards and
decorations for his service and bravery. His
accolades include the Distinguished Flying Cross,
for heroism in flight, Bronze Star Medal, 17 Air
Medals, 2 Army Commendation Medals and the
Combat Infantryman Badge. John has had many
titles in his beautiful life, from Deacon, to
Soldier, Husband, Father, Grandfather, mentor and
friend. He has impacted lives of everyone who knew
him. His teachings, advice and wisdom have left a
footprint on our hearts that is as genuine and
unique as he was. He has solidified his legacy on
this earth, laid the foundation for us to build
upon, and will continue his work in the afterlife.
He is survived by his Wife and soul mate
Charlotte, of 49 years, 2 sons, William (Bill) and
Michael (Mikey), 6 grandchildren and 7
great-grandchildren. Arrangements have been made
by Queen of Heaven Catholic Funeral Home for
public viewing on Tuesday, June 28, 2016 from 7:00
to 9:00 P.M., with a Rosary reading at 7:30 P.M at
Queen of Peace Catholic Church located at 141 N
Macdonald, Mesa, AZ 85201. Mass of Christian
Burial will be held Wednesday, June 29, 2016 at
10:00 A.M. at the same location. In lieu of
flowers, Please send donations to Americare
Hospice in Mesa, AZ. Condolences may be made
at www.queenofheavencatholicmortuary.com
Published in The Arizona Republic on June 26,
2016
This information was last updated 06/28/2016
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