Berton Arthur Riech

Riech, Berton Arthur, 83, of Yorba Linda, passed away on Sunday, November 6, 2011. He was born to Theodore and Edna Riech on February 26, 1928 in Springfield, Illinois. Bert honorably served his country in the U.S. Navy aboard the destroyer U.S.S. Stickell in both WWII and the Korean War. While stationed in San Diego, he met the love of his life, Mary Elizabeth Sager and married on July 9, 1950. They started their family in Anaheim and moved to Yorba Linda where they have lived since 1962. Bert was a grading and paving contractor for over 40 years. He worked on the original construction of Disneyland during its year-long construction. Raising three boys, Bert was of course a Boy Scout leader. His love of the outdoors and hunting and fishing made him the perfect fit. Later in life Bert became an award-winning painter and avid gardener. Never one to sit still, while in his eighties he was raising pepper plants and selling them at the local farmers markets every week. He also had a great love for music playing guitar and piano. He was larger than life and tougher than nails but also the most loving and caring Father, Grandfather and Great-grandfather. He touched the lives of many and was loved and cherished by all. Bert is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Betty , sons David (Barbara), Mike (Lori) and Craig (Jullia); grandchildren Kathy, Casey, Janey, Maxwell, Jennifer and Benjamin; great-grandchildren Jocelyn and Christian. Until we meet again, Hombre!