Merle Reinke

September 4, 1941 - February 3, 2016

Funeral Services for Merle Reinke age 74 of Neligh, NE were 10:30 am Wednesday, February 10, 2016 at Snider Memorial Funeral Home in Clearwater with Pastor Toni Nolze, Officiating. Music provided by Carol Thiele. Burial will be in Clearwater Cemetery with Military Rites by Neligh American Legion Post #172. Pallbearers were Jame Kuhl, Jerry Behnk, Barton, Koinzan, Ryan Lichtenberg, Roger, Huntley, and Dave Behnk. Honorary Pallbearers were Karen Keifer, Karen Howards, Chris Anson, Bev Ziems, Sandy Koinzan, and Pat Decker. Visitation will be Tuesday, February 9, 2016 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Snider Memorial Funeral Home in Clearwater. Merle passed away Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at Avera Sacred Heart Hospital in Yankton, SD. Merle Ray Reinke was born on September 4, 1941 to Omer and Margaret (Leiding) Reinke at Clearwater, Nebraska. He attended High School in Meadow Grove, NE. On November 18, 1960 he enlisted in the United States Air Force at Omaha, NE and was discharged on November 17, 1964 at Williams Air Force Base in Arizona. Merle farmed and did custom farming and drove truck for many years. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle, fishing, being with family and friends. He was a member of the Neligh American Legion Post #172. Survived by his children: Tammy Jenkins of Oregon, Teresa and Gary Schindler of Elgin, Nebraska, Dianne Byrd of Alaska, Billy Reinke of Oregon, Bobbie Amaro of Norfolk, Nebraska, and Dustin and Liz Reinke of Oregon. 16 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Sister and Brothers: Bonnie Hickenbottom of Ansley, Nebraska, Millie and Dan Virstka of Tucson, Arizona, Dale Reinke of Tucson, AZ, and Loren and Gloria Reinke of Howard, Nebraska. Preceded in death by parents, Brother-in-law, Mick Hickenbottom and sister-in-law, Lois Reinke.