Otto J. Riess

Otto John Bud Riess passed away Wednesday, October 1, 2014 at Madonna Towers in Rochester, MN where he had resided since January, 2014. He was born on October 3, 1932 in Rochester, MN to Otto and Melba (Peterson) Riess.In 1950 he graduated from Rochester High School.Soon after graduation he went to work for S.J. Groves driving heavy equipment in the iron ranges on Northern Minnesota.He was a member of the Operating Engineers Local 49.Working as a heavy equipment operator he helped build and expand the highway systems in Southern Minnesota. He was also employed as a mechanic for Gopher Aviation in Rochester.He retired from Mayo Clinic Franklin Heating Station in 1990. In December 1957, he married Alice Rask.They were later divorced but have remained friends.This marriage produced two daughters, Christine and Mary.He also later married Donna Sieberling and they were later divorced. In his youth Otto played hockey for Rochester High School and enjoyed building and racing his stock car Ottos Auto.During his retirement years he enjoyed riding and showing his Harley Davidson motorcycle and side car.He is a life member of the Harley Owners Group (HOG).He was proud of the many trophies he won, especially the 1997, Best of Show in Sturgis South Dakota presented to him by Willie G. Davidson. Hes a former member of the Elks Club and for many years was active and involved with the Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite, York Lodge, Osman Temple Shrine and the Merry Medic Clowns. Otto is survived by his daughters, Christine (Guy) Hunter of Eyota and Mary (Jeff) Quandt of Rochester; his beloved grandchildren, Stephanie and Jacob Lammers; his sister, Tudie Simonson of Spring Valley, MN and her children Anne (Leland) Kappers and Brian Simonson; Ottos former wife and friend, Alice Riess; along with many dear and special friends.He is preceded in death by his parents; special aunts, Lena Cutshall and Edythe Price; brother-in-law, Curtis Simonson and his faithful four legged friend, Chipper M.J. A funeral service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 4, 2014 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes.Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. on Friday, October 3, 2014 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes and one hour prior to the service on Saturday.Burial will take place at a later date at Bear Creek Cemetery in Grand Meadow, MN. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to mayo clinic Hospice or a charity of the donors choice. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN55901 (507) 289-3600 www.ranfranzandvinefh.com