Paul Joseph Rieker

great teacher and fantastic coach of the javelin

I had the privilege of knowing Coach Rieker in my youth. He was my outdoor track and field coach at Agawam high school. He was one of the main reasons I ever got into track and found my event the 800m. Coach Rieker was a wise man, full of knowledge and real world advice. He wasn´t just a coach he was a mentor and I´m very sad to hear of his passing. My sincerest condolences go out to his wife Maria and his sons Pat and Connor, who I ran with in high school. We lost a good man, but he won´t be...

He was an amazing man. I was a student of his at Classical High. He challenged us, made us think and treated us like more then students. I can still see him coming in on Mondays with a slight limp and some post Rugby "wounds " with a wry smile on his face. Clearly he made a difference in so many lives and I smile reading all of these tributes. -Rest in peace good sir.

My sincerest condolences to the Rieker and Barbieri families. Paul was an amazing teacher and person , I feel so fortunate to have known him.

My sincerest condolences to your family, I have worked with Paul for many years at Classical and Central in the school and on the track. He was a great guy who loved his family, gave 100% in the classroom to his students as well as his athletes on the track. I haven´t met anyone including myself who doesn´t have a fond memory or kind word for Paul´s involvement in their life. May he rest in peace.

Coach, I have often thought of you through the years and of all the lessons and experience you gave me! You are hardcore, one of a kind! Rest in Peace, Condolences to your Family

Mr Rieker was my 12th grade English teacher at Central. I didn´t like to go to school as much but I loved going to his class. Rest In Peace

Paul was my Rugby coach,and I also worked at Central with him.You couldn't meet a nicer individual. He was one of a kind,and always helpful. I am very sorry for your family's loss, he was truly a great man.

Paul was our rugby team captain in the late 70´s. He was good captain, engaging and passionate, welcoming, and encouraging us rugby novices. Intense and competitive but at the same time it was evident that he led a balanced life, an intelligent teacher during the week and a warrior on Saturday afternoons. Rest In Peace Captain, Well Done! Tim Somers