Betty Jane Rieck

Betty Jane Rieck nee Poehler, 84, of South Bend, IN passed away Wednesday March 25, 2009 at 12:27a.m. Her family was beside her when she began her new adventure with her Lord and Savior after an unexpected illness.

Born May 13, 1924 to Rufus and Clara Poehler who preceded her in death. Betty worked for the Draft Board during World War II where she met her husband. On November 28, 1948 she married Robert Glennard Rieck of Michigan City, Indiana who also preceded her in death in 1984. She was a member of the first graduating class of John Adams High School in 1942.

She is survived by five children, Susanjane Lynn Sampson (Rieck) of Beaumont, Texas, Ruthalice Jean Rieck of South Bend, Marybeth Louise Jones (Rieck) and her husband, David of Osceola, IN, Robert Lee Rieck and Paul Andrew Rieck all of South Bend. She was blessed with six grandchildren, Jason L. (Mary) Sampson of Beaumont, TX, Craig L. Sampson of Orange, TX, Meredith Ann Jones and Ashley Louise Jones of Osceola, IN, Sydney Dayle Rieck of South Bend, IN. Finally, two other gifts from God her great grandchildren, Nicholas Wayne Sampson and his brother, Kasey Logan Sampson of Beaumont, TX. Her grandson, little Aaron David Jones also preceded her in death.

She will be remembered for her unquestionable faith and devotion to her Lord and Savior. He provided her with the strength and guidance to carry her through many challenging tasks while raising five children. One of which is handicapped and her husband terminally ill with Parkinson's for 23 years. All of which made her so fulfilled and happy.

Betty was involved with Special Olympics in its early years while her son participated. She was involved with charitable activities, which pleased her so.

Her family will always remember her great ability to love them and the strength she had to lead them through every endeavor.

In lieu of flowers please send memorial contributions to Center for Hospice & Palliative Care, 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, IN 46637. The organization, that provided unmatchable loving care to her as she began her walk to God. They allowed her family to be able to participate in their Mother's final journey to her heavenly home. We remember her wonderful spirit in difficult times. Her gentle, genuine smile and laughter that uplifted us so many times. The giving nature and concern for others; which included her faithful pal, "Jack" the golden retriever, which was by her sided until she left us.

As we say, "Farewell" we remember a quote from her grandsons, "We'll see you, Grandma in the Texas Sky."

A celebration of Betty's life will be held at 10AM Friday, March 27, 2009 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 51490 Laurel Road, South Bend, IN 46637. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery, South Bend. Friends may visit with the family from 6:00-8:00PM Thursday in Palmer Funeral Home - River Park, 2528 Mishawaka Ave, South Bend. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

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