Howard J. Riess

Howard J. Riess, age 88, a lifelong resident of Rochester, MN died Saturday, August 18, 2018 at the Charter House in Rochester. Howard James Riess was born July 8, 1930 in Rochester, MN the son of Reinhold and Agnes (McClaren) Riess. At the age of 3, Howard's mother died in an automobile accident. Howard went to live with his maternal grandparents, Ted and Effie Paulios along with their children, Mike and Mary. His sister, Ardyth, went to live with her paternal grandparents which was two blocks down the street. Howard graduated from Rochester High School in 1948. Howard began his 46-year career with the Methodist Hospital at the age of 14. He worked bussing tables while his grandfather, Ted, worked in the kitchen. He then worked as an orderly and moved to the Maintenance Department working his way to Head of Maintenance until his retirement. While at the Methodist Hospital, Howard met his future wife, Alice Remold, who was working as a nurse's aide. They were married on April 13, 1955 at Gol Lutheran Church in Kenyon, MN and have celebrated 63 years of marriage. Howard was a member of the Rochester Area Woodcarvers Association and traveled with Mike Paulios to classes and shows. He was also a member of Zumbro Lutheran Church, since 1955, and the Eagles. He was a Minnesota Twins, Minnesota Vikings and NASCAR fan. He also volunteered at Folwell Elementary School. Howard cherished the time spent with his family during the summer fishing trips at Hay Lake Lodge. It was the only time one would see him sporting "shorts". He was an extremely proud grandpa and cheerleader of his grandchildren. Howard is survived by his wife, Alice of Rochester, MN; daughter, Elizabeth (Mark) Ellson of St. Charles, MN; son, Carl Riess of Renton, WA; seven grandchildren, Amanda (Leif) Madsen, Emily Ellson, Alissa, Erik, Ryan, Parker and Edward Riess; great granddaughter, Brenna Madsen. He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; siblings, Ardyth, Mike Paulios, Mary Zotalis, Gaylen and Eugene Riess. Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Wednesday, August 22, 2018 at Zumbro Lutheran Church 624 3rd Ave. SW, Rochester, MN. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Private family interment will be held at Grandview Memorial Gardens in Rochester. To share a special condolence or message please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901