Carl Walter Riester died on October 25, 2024. Born to William and Grace on February 24, 1955, in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, he was a “military brat” and spent his youth moving every few years; he primarily lived in the midwest, but spent four years in South America.
He graduated from Fountain-Fort Carson, Colorado High School, Westminster College of Missouri, and Troy University of Alabama. He had an illustrious 20-year U.S. Army military career, graduating from Airborne, Ranger, Special Forces, Pathfinder, and Air Assault Army schools, to name a few. Most of his military career was spent in Germany, and his all-time favorite jump wings were awarded from Germany and Belgium.
Ever quick with a joke, or to brew enough coffee for a battalion, or to send a postcard from his most recent travels, he was constantly thinking of others. His generosity and giving spirit were unmatched; he was the best gift-giver.
His pastimes included hunting, camping, fishing, kayaking and lending his beautiful singing talent to church and community choirs. Singing Handel’s Messiah with the Heidelberg Community Choir with his daughter was a high-point in his singing endeavors. He was involved in many community activities, including Community Huntsville Land Trust, Huntsville Community Choir, and the annual Veterans Day parade. He always had a crossword puzzle (or four) on him.
Carl was preceded in death by his father, William H. Riester, Jr.; his mother, Grace Amanda Riester; his sister Amy Jo Riester; and his beloved dog, Sugrr Riester.
He is survived by his wife, Kathleen Riester; daughter, Cecilia Riester; brother, William H. Riester III; niece, Amanda Riester; nephew and wife, Alex and Kaitlyn Riester; and grand-nephew, William Foss Riester.
His love for his wife and daughter were incomparable; he was their biggest champion and proudest supporter. He was a great man, solider, brother, husband, father, uncle, and will be greatly missed.
Visitation will be from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., Monday, November 11, 2024, at Laughlin Service Funeral Home. A Rosary will be at 9:30 followed by the funeral service at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at Our Lady Help of Christians Church with Father Alan Mackey officiating. Burial will be in Maple Hill Cemetery.
Consider ordering flowers from either Albert’s or Glenn’s, or please consider donating to the Northern Alabama Land Trust in Carl’s name as a tribute.
