Lois J. Riedel, age 66, of Newton, passed away Sunday August 24, 2014 at her
home.
Lois was born in Clarion, Iowa on November 23, 1947 to Kenneth and Marjorie
(Hamilton) Mosher. She grew up on a farm and was a tomboy at heart. She could
often be found following her dad around the farm preferring to do outside chores
rather than inside/household chores. She attended country schools and graduated
from Clarion High School in 1965. Lois married Ronald Green in 1966 and to that
union was born Tonya Sue. In 1977 she married Steven Riedel and they were
blessed with two children: Clinton Jon and Amanda Rose. As an adult she was
confirmed into the Lutheran faith. Lois was active in her church and remained a
member of Immanuel Lutheran Church of Rowan. Lois had a strong faith. One she
willingly enjoyed sharing her beliefs with her loved ones. Lois had a creative
side. This skill was put to use in her job as a graphic artist. She worked at
Allen Printing business in Clarion for several years, followed by 23 years of
employment with PSI in Belmond. Lois retired in 2012, and the following year
Lois moved to Newton. Lois was a kind and compassionate individual. This was
evident in always putting other first and her ability to talk to everyone no
matter their circumstance. She was a friend to all. Her greatest joys in life
were her grandchildren. She loved attending their activities and cheering them
on. She was proud of each and every one of her children and grandchildren and
would share her love of them with others. She also loved cheering on her Green
Bay Packers! She remained a stout supporter even in the "losing" seasons. Lois
was an avid reader and passed this on to her family. Lois liked a good challenge
and enjoyed putting together puzzles and completing Soduku games. Lois was a
competitive game player who strategized while playing board games (especially
Scrabble) and card games! She was a talented quilter who truly enjoyed making
quilts for family members and friends. Lois was well versed in labor and her
short, stubby fingers and weathered work hands were evidence of her work ethic.
Lois is affectionately remembered for her barefoot antics…sometimes even driving
while having one bare foot propped upon the car door or side dash! Lois had a
great sense of conversation and enjoyed sharing a cup of coffee and a good talk
with many family and friends. Her love of "sweet" coffee often found the younger
relatives hoping to get the last swallow from her cup for a sweet treat. Lois
had a wonderful sense of humor. The way Lois tucked her head upon her chest
while lifting her shoulders and giggling is fond memory forever etched in her
loved ones' hearts.
Lois unconditionally loved her children: Tonya (Dave) Dockwell of Belmond,
Clinton Riedel of Belmond, Amanda (Travis) McConnell of Newton and her
grandchildren: Joshua High, Brianna High, Emma Riedel, and Trenton Riedel. Lois
is also survived by her two loving sisters: Lynn Peterson of Newton and Lila
(Mike) Kelly of Des Moines. Also left to honor her memory are a host of nieces,
nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and in-laws; along with her longtime
friend, Tony Mosiman.
Lois was preceded in death by her parents, one sister (LuAnn Mary) and two
brothers (Kim Allen and Jon Kenneth).