Walter Riese, age 95, of Barron, passed away on Sunday, April 10, 2022, at Monroe Manor in Barron.

He was born December 4, 1926, to Herman and Emma Riese in Spooner, Wisconsin.

After graduating from Spooner High School in 1944, he served a short stint in the Navy. He then went to the Pharmacy School at the University of Minnesota. After graduation in 1950, he worked in pharmacies in Spooner and Chetek before spending most of his career at James Pharmacy in Barron.

He was married to Florence Petersen on June 25, 1950, and they were married for 68 years, until her death in 2019. They had four daughters.

He served as alderman and mayor of Barron in the 1970s. He enjoyed living in Barron and was active in the First Lutheran Church. For many years he played tennis weekly with his friends. He was involved with the Spotlighter community theater.

After retirement, he enjoyed gardening and sitting on his front porch, chatting with neighbors.  Walter and Florence traveled extensively. When their daughters were young, they packed the family and grandparents in the station wagon to travel around the US and Canada. Later, the couple traveled worldwide, taking trips including much of Europe, China, and Mexico.

He is survived by his daughters, Patricia Riese (Carl Ball), Joanne Riese, and Mary Riese (Erik Riese); seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Walter was preceded in death by his wife, Florence; oldest daughter, Karen Lowder; his brothers, Henry Reichert and Elmer Riese; and his sister, Elsie Goetsch.

The family would like to thank everyone at Monroe Manor for their loving care of both Walter and Florence.

Donations can be made to First Lutheran Church in Barron.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are being handled by Rausch and Steel Funeral Home in Barron.

Last Update: Apr 11, 2022 3:52 pm CDT