I was surprised to hear of Dave's passing today.  I worked with Dave on the night job at Roseport for a period of time.  When I first met Dave he was quiet and reserved, as I got to know him I learned he had quite the dry sense of humor.  Also he was very ceribal.  A very smart man.  He cared about his fellow Union members and stood up for them. I feel for his family and friends today! Rest in peace Dave!!!!

About 20 years ago when I was researching my grandmother's connection to the garment workers union, someone told me I should call a guy named Dave Riehle. If anyone could help me, he could, I was told.   Dave not only generously helped me with my research, he became a wonderful friend. He also reintroduced me to my hometown of St. Paul and opened my eyes to the city's labor history, which had been so central to my own family history. 
             Only thanks to Dave,  I was privileged to ride along on old buses when he conducted labor history tours.  We would have lunch about once a year -- always at some unheralded but interesting place I had not previously known.  And once he insisted we check out an historical cemetery. Dave was one of a kind. A most special friend. I will sure miss him. 
         Sincere condolences to his family.

During the 12 years in which I was the editor of "Ramsey County History," the quarterly history magazine of the Ramsey County Historical Society in St. Paul, Minn., I had the opportunity to work closely with Dave on publishing several of his articles about St. Paul's history.  Dave was a meticulous researcher who made sure he examined all the sources that touched on the topic that he wanted to write about. In addition, he often incorporated some understated touches of humor in his writing when that was appropriate. The resulting manuscript would not only be very accurate, but also highly interesting reading for our audience. I'm grateful to have known Dave and to have had the privilege to work with him on local history.
John M. Lindley

A brother Union man was Dave. I cannot say enough of what Dave did for me in the trenches or railroading.  As local chairman Dave went to bat for me in submitting my cut slips that the CNW refused to pay, in violations to schedule rules.  The large amounts of money I received from Daves hard work can never be replaced.  A fine man, a gentleman, and a brother Union man, I shall forever be in your debt, rest in peace brother Dave.!

Worked with Dave on the Railroad. I was his conductor on long haul freight trains for many trips. Smart good conversations with him during many long trips in the locomotive. Good engineer who I trusted while doing work with him switching out cars. Good union man who did a lot in furthering union agendas. RIP Dave. It was a pleasure to work with you.

Dave had an encyclopedic knowledge of labor history, a dedication to justice and a generous spirit.

Dave’s curiosity was boundless and his depth of knowledge astonishing. His research and advocacy led to the renaming of the street by the St. Paul labor center for William Mahoney, historic Farmer-Labor union leader and mayor of the city. 

I asked Dave to join me in searching for the forgotten names and life stories of the workers who built the Minnesota State Capitol building. He readily agreed and recruited his friend, another gifted researcher, John Sielaff. 

Together with Vickie Woodcock, we collaborated for more than five years to produce a video documentary, a curriculum and a website, which featured the names, homes and backgrounds of more than 460 workers. The project culminated in a reunion of around 200 descendants and a plaque at the Capitol honoring the six workers who died during its construction. 

One of my favorite memories is going over to Dave and Gladys’ house. Dave made a wonderful cup of coffee and we’d sit and talk and pat their cat. Eventually, we’d get to discussing some aspect of the Capitol project. Dave’s warmth and his stories left me feeling calmer and more aware of the world, past and present.  I treasure those gifts he shared. 
 
My sympathy and condolences to Dave’s family and all who know him.

Dave was a friend and comrade of mine in Houston, Texas in the early 70s.  He was political to the core and never backed off from seeing the need for a revolution in this country.  We reconnected in Atlanta about 20 years ago when he was doing research on Sally  Hemings.  He educated me thoroughly on the subject and I accompanied him to libraries around Atlanta.  Dave was an important person in my life and I will never forget him.  I’m sorry we lost touch.
Jill Parks
atlparks@yahoo.com

OBITUARY

David John Riehle

10 July, 1946 – 21 January, 2024

Wulff Funeral Home

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