Ted Rieke

It is with great sadness the family of Ted William Rieke, 77, announces his passing on Aug. 22, 2020. Ted passed away at home surrounded by his family.

Ted was born in Auburn, Indiana, on Jan. 18, 1943, to Irvin H. Rieke and Hilda M. Rieke. Most of his childhood was spent on the Ox Bow Ranch in Wolf Creek, Montana. He graduated from Cascade High in 1961 and then attended the University of Montana. During his time in Missoula he joined the Air Force ROTC and the Montana Beta chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. After graduating in 1965, as a second lieutenant, Ted entered Air Force pilot training at Webb Air Force Base. He served his country in Vietnam flying C123s. Ted was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for “heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight.”

After he left the Air Force, Ted moved to Billings in 1971. He managed the family-owned fixed base operation, Gillis Aviation, at Logan International Airport. In 1986 Ted started a successful oil and gas business.

In 2011, Ted relocated to Bigfork to be near his kids. His favorite pastimes were flying, boating and working on cars. Ted loved traveling and often hosted friends in Bigfork and Rio Verde, Arizona.

He will be deeply missed by his friends and family.

Ted is survived by his three children, Rhett and wife Kelly, Marlys, and Alison and her husband Mark; his six grandchildren; brothers, Rex and wife Judy and Tex; his sister, Pas; and his loving and dear friend, Patsy Romberg.

Friends are encouraged to visit the website www.buffalohillfh.com to leave notes of condolence for the family. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.