Obituary of George Richard Riedel

George Richard Riedel, Jr., 60, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, at Morristown Medical Center on Feb. 21, 2015. Born in Jersey City to parents George Henry Riedel, Sr. and Helen (née Moraitis), George grew up in Rockaway Township, where he raised his own family with his beloved wife of 41 years, Nancy (née Bowman). He is survived by Nancy, son George M., daughter Michelle D. and her husband Andrew Durning, cherished grandchildren, Liam and Elizabeth Durning, sister Barbara Ranft and her husband Donald and sister Joan Goble, as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. An employee of the Rockaway Township Water Dept. until his retirement in 2011, George was known for his giving spirit. He was a member of the Marcella Fire Dept. and coach for Rockaway Township Little League. He was Commander of S.A.L. American Legion Post #344 and a trustee on the Marcella Community Center board when he passed. He enjoyed cooking (and was famous for his Manhattan Clam Chowder), fishing, ice fishing and hunting. George's warmth and charm brought countless people to his pig roasts, barbecues and Christmas Eve bashes. Those he leaves behind know his indelible spirit will live forever; So, keep your eyes, ears and hearts open—and your party hats on, because George loved to have a good time. You'll feel it—during bouts of laughter, when the leaves crunch beneath your feet during hunting season, and in the clink of beer bottles, shared between friends. Visiting hours (Wed., Feb. 25 from 4-8 p.m.) and funeral services (Thurs., Feb. 26 at 11 a.m.) will be held at the Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville. Burial to follow at Marcella Cemetery, Rockaway Township. Donations may be made in his honor to S.A.L. American Legion Post #344, 210 Chestnut Terrace, Rockaway, NJ 07866, or Marcella Community Center, P.O. Box #83, Hibernia, NJ 07842. You may light a candle in the memory of this great man who touched so many lives at: www.normandean.com.