Norma Mae Rieck

Norma M. Rieck, age 88, of Huron, passed away in her sleep on Friday, January 2, 2026 in Huron. Her funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at Welter Funeral Home in Huron with burial to follow at Maplewood Cemetery in Iroquois, SD. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Norma Mae Rieck was born on January 25, 1937 in Huron, SD to Paul and Bernice (Parkhurst) Spain. She attended Huron schools before entering the workforce. Norma enjoyed working at The Plains Restaurant when she met Merlin. They married April 3, 1955. Living in Iroquois, Norma and Merlin enjoyed playing cards, square dancing, camping and raising their children, Michael and Karen.

When a fire left Norma and Merlin homeless, they bought a truck and camper and took to the road. They explored Arizona and Texas. For years, Norma and Merlin camped in the Black Hills while working seasonal positions at Custer State Park. They were members of the Lutheran Church and attended services faithfully wherever they lived.

Norma devoured books, crossword puzzles and most word games. Look out trying to beat her at Scrabble. Norma was known to be especially competitive when playing cards, even while teaching her grandchildren. But the Thursday card party was a favorite. Norma hosted many gatherings, and could whip up a good meal out of anything.

Faith, family and friends were Norma's passions. She will be missed.

Norma is survived by two children, Michael (Elaine) Rieck of Harrisburg, SD, and Karen (Arland) Mastel of Wallace, SD; six grandchildren, Patrick and Matthew Rieck, Ray, Neal, Michelle and Katie Mastel; five great-grandchildren; three brothers, James (Diannah) Spain of Sun City, CA, Lloyd (Jean) Spain of Huron, SD, Ronald (Janet) Spain of La Crosse, WI; and her sister, Barbara (Robert) Boone of Sioux Falls, SD.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Merlin; brothers, Robert, Donald and Paul, Jr. Spain; sisters, Dorothy Paul and Violet Zimlinghaus.