John F. Rinke MD

John Francis Rinke, a devout Roman Catholic, a man of unshakable integrity, and a beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully on the morning of Thursday, December 26, 2024, surrounded by his family. Born on December 9, 1949, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, John was the second of seven children born to Mary and Francis Rinke.
John's faith, which began in his youth, became the cornerstone of his life. He was a 1968 graduate of Roncalli High School, where he was part of the first class to complete all four years. He went on to graduate as part of the inaugural four-year class at the University of South Dakota Medical School in Vermillion.
John was a board-certified pediatrician and emergency physician who dedicated over 30 years of his career to Community Memorial Hospital in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. He was also one of the first doctors to join Infinity Healthcare, a pioneering group that staffed local hospitals throughout the area. John prided himself on fostering an environment where his nurses felt comfortable telling him when he was wrong, valuing collaboration and mutual respect. It is not uncommon to encounter old coworkers who still remember him fondly as a kind and compassionate doctor with whom to work.
Growing up in South Dakota, John developed a lifelong love of the outdoors. Summers at Enemy Swim Lake with his parents, two brothers, and four sisters were filled with fishing, boating, and swimming. Hunting, camping, and fishing trips with his childhood friends, Mel Zacher and Terry Backous, were among his happiest memories.
One story encapsulates the essence of John's character. On his way to a medical school interview during a snowstorm, John stopped to help a stranger stranded in a ditch, despite being dressed in his best suit. After helping the man, John arrived at his interview worried about his disheveled appearance. To his surprise, one of the interviewers was the very man he had rescued. John's selflessness and compassion left a lasting impression, earning him a place in the medical school. This story is a testament to how John lived: always ready to lend a hand with a kind heart and a lighthearted laugh.
John was the most honest man his family knew and a man of deep devotion-to his faith, his beloved wife Holly, and his two daughters, Rachel and Rebecca. He cherished his three grandchildren: Henry, Savannah, and Charlotte.
John is survived by his wife of 46 years, Holly Rinke; his daughters, Rachel (Jim) Goldman and Rebecca; his grandchildren, Henry, Savannah, and Charlotte; his siblings Mary Kay, Mike, Ann, Martha, Liz, and Chris; and countless friends and family who were touched by his kindness and humor. He is preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Francis Rinke.
A funeral Mass celebrating John's life and faith will be held on Friday, January 3, 2025, at Holy Angels Catholic Church in West Bend, Wisconsin. Visitation will take place from 9 to 11 a.m., with the Mass beginning at 11 a.m. A catered lunch will follow. Burial will take place at Buffalo-Trinity Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Roncalli High School at the following address:
1400 N Dakota St.
Aberdeen, SD 57401
John Francis Rinke was a man of faith, honor, and love. His legacy will endure in the hearts of all who knew him.
The Schmidt Funeral Home in West Bend is serving the family. If you would like to leave a message of comfort and condolence please visit www.schmidtfuneralhome.com