Claude Marvin Rieschick, 98, lifelong resident of Soldier, passed away Monday, January 4, 2021 at his home with family by his side. He was born July 1, 1922 in Soldier the son of Henry Fred and Audrey Merle (McKinsey) Rieschick.      Claude attended Harrison Elementary and graduated from Soldier Rural High School. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted with the United States Army serving in Italy during WWII. He was a lifelong farmer and stockman and was a longtime employee of Holton Livestock Exchange.

He was a member of Soldier and Bucks Grove Methodist Churches, Holton V.F.W. Post 1367, Corning American Legion, Soldier Lion’s Club, Soldier Senior Citizens and Nemaha Marshall REA.  He enjoyed attending the family’s many sporting events and gatherings. Claude with his twin brother Clyde were honored to sing at hundreds of funerals over the years. They also sang the national anthem, on “Farmers Night”, at Kauffman Stadium. Claude was also instrumental in starting the Jackson Heights Honor Flight.

Claude married Betty Irene Capsey on April 16, 1944 at Betty’s sister’s home in Soldier. They celebrated over 72 years of marriage, before her passing on May 13, 2016. He was also preceded in death by his twin brother, Clyde Rieschick; brother Keith Rieschick and 3 sisters, Fern Chrisman, Faye Myer and Lois Wheeler.

Survivors include 3 sons, Wayne Rieschick (Theresa) of Soldier, KS, LeRoy Rieschick (Linda) of Soldier, KS and Tony Rieschick of Holton, KS; one daughter, Claudia Long (Dale) of Meriden, KS; sister, Twila Tribble of Houston, TX; 13 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren and 7 great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, January 8, 2021 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Soldier Cemetery.  The family will greet friends from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Thursday, January 7, 2021 at the funeral home.   Memorials are suggested to the Claude Rieschick Memorial Fund to be distributed by the family to: City of Soldier, Jackson Heights Alumni Association, Bucks Grove United Methodist Church and Onaga Community Homehealth c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton 66436.  To leave a special message for the family, visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com