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Kenneth Rieske Obituary
He was born in Meriden on July 30, 1952, a son of late Bernard and Dorothy (Scott) Rieske.
Ken was a lifelong resident of Wallingford. He graduated from Lyman Hall High School and earned a B.S. from Quinnipiac College.
Ken's passion was music, especially the blues. He took music lessons at four years old and learned to play the accordion. He was a talented singer, songwriter, keyboardist, and guitarist. He was known for his soulful voice. He played and sang in numerous bands throughout his musical career including the Aristocrats, the Blake Street Gut Band, and the Two of Us. The last two years he was a member of the Wallingford Chorus.
He is survived by his sister, Patricia Sayre and her husband, James, Jr., of, Wallingford.
His family will receive relatives and friends in The Wallingford Funeral Home, 809 N. Main St. Ext., Tuesday, Aug. 27, from 5 to 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 28 directly at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Wallingford. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, gifts in his memory can be made to the charity of one's choice. For online condolences or directions, visit www.wallingfordfh.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth Rieske
Sponsored by Wallingford Funeral Home - Wallingford.
Irving & Julie Moy
September 27, 2019
Julie and I just found out about Ken's death. We are so sorry. Ken and your folks were a big part of our lives on Grandview Avenue. We'll always remember them. Much love to you and Jim.
Pat and Al Maschio
September 2, 2019
We enjoyed having Ken in our exercise class at the Wallingford Senior Center where we often had such interesting conversations over lunch. 'Had great talks about his love of music, which we enjoyed at concerts at the Center and at Wallingford Chorus concerts. Ken was so kind as to procure a special bracket for my Father's violin which I've been waiting for years to hang over our piano!May God grant him eternal rest.
Pat and Al Maschio
Debbie Sheehan
August 29, 2019
I remember double-dating with Kenny in high school! We lost touch for years, but reconnected via Facebook several years ago. He kept me advised about his gigs, and I did the same for my Yalesville Fife & Drum Corps gigs.
So very sorry to hear of his passing. He was such a gentleman and really decent person. Rest easy, Ken.
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Douglas Quigley
August 27, 2019
Farewell my friend. We went to school together from k through 12. You are a big part of the fond memories I have of growing up in Wallingford. Peace.
Mark Boughton
August 26, 2019
This came as such a shock to me . Ken was such a genuine person that was known by many in Wallingford as well as in the local music scene . He truly was a gentleman and a sincere person . He will be missed by many I'm sure . Rest In Peace Kenny
Lynn Weed
August 26, 2019
Ken was a wonderful friend. We were friends since we were in high school and before, in Wallingford. We had recently re-established our friendship through the Classmates website and by phone. We made plans to meet, either in CT or NY, but our schedules were difficult to arrange. I sincerely, wish we had. Sending him love, prayer, and good thoughts. I am sure his soul and spirit are rising. Love, Lynn Conte
Ginny Amendola
August 26, 2019
Ken was a good friend shared many good times thru our CREDO Group and of course will miss going to see him sing and play his wonderful music which he greatly enjoyed. May he rest in peace. Your friend, Ginny
August 26, 2019
Sorry and shocked to hear of Ken's passing. I didn't know him well, but he seemed to be a quiet, gentle man. I loved his solo rendition of James Taylor's "Fire and Rain" at our last concert. The Wallingford Chorus will miss Ken. Rest in peace.
Mina Marak - soprano, Wallingford Chorus
The Wallingford Senior Center Silver Steppers
August 25, 2019
We will miss Ken playing the piano and singing some favorite 60's and 70's songs. He was a nice addition to our Tap Dancer programs. Rest In Peace. Our condolences go out to his family.
Phyllis and Rich Hodgkins
August 25, 2019
Besides being a wonderful musician and good friend, Kenny was truly a kind and thoughtful person. We will miss him and hold him in our hearts. Sending love to Pat and Jim.
Carol Huske
August 25, 2019
Ken you will surely be missed Music Man. Our thoughts and prays go out to Patty and her Family
Colin Armour
August 25, 2019
Ken was a good friend. His knowledge of music groups and songs from the 60s and 70s was astounding. He sat next to me at Wallingford Chorus and participated in open mics. around the state. I miss him already.
Carol Buongirno
August 25, 2019
Wonderful memories of Ken. From our great times at Credo events, his performances that got me up and dancing, his genuine friendship. We will miss this gentle man. God bless .
Carol and Colin
Diane Cadrain
August 25, 2019
Pat, I remember you from Sacred Heart Academy. Im so sorry you lost your brother.
Bob Wilton
August 25, 2019
So very sorry to hear of the passing of Kenny, a local musical 'legend'. Back in the '60s, Kenny, as a member of The Aristocrats, helped inspire many Wallingford kids to pursue an interest in making music. That, in itself, stands as a fitting legacy to a fine man. Sympathy and condolences to Kenny's family and friends.
Sal Greco
August 25, 2019
Kenny gave us countless hours of musical entertainment, he will certainly be missed by the music community. May he be at Peace.
Lynn Conte-Weed
August 25, 2019
Ken was a wonderful friend. Prayers for his soul.
Barry and Sandy O'Brien
August 24, 2019
Kenny, a true gentleman, a kind human being, a talented musician and a good friend for over fifty years. You will forever remain in our hearts through the memories we shared and your music. May your beautiful soul rest in peace.
Gena & Rene Perodeau
August 24, 2019
Dear Ken, we will miss you, your friendship and your music. May you rest in peace!
ingeborg schimmer
August 24, 2019
So sorry to hear about Ken's passing. He sang a beautiful solo at our last concert. Such a kind person. He will be missed at our rehearsals.
Carla Montori,
August 24, 2019
I love you, dear Ken. My heart is with you. May you rest in peace and rise in glory, in wonderful song. I kiss to you.
Patti Correia Cascio
August 24, 2019
My condolences to the family, Kenny was like my other brother, he will be missed my many,we had some nice conversations over the years ❤
Gail Russo
August 24, 2019
I am so sad to read of your sudden passing. Our LHHS reunion wont be the same without you. Thank you for your beautiful music and May you rest in peace.
Bo & Mo Lavorgna
August 24, 2019
Kenny, you were an incredible musician, singer, songwriter, son, brother and friend. Rest in peace, Key. You are forever in our hearts and our music. Thanks for sharing yours with us for so many years.
Showing 1 - 26 of 26 results
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Memorial Events
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Aug
27
Visitation
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Wallingford Funeral Home - Wallingford809 North Main Street Ext., Wallingford, CT 06492
Funeral services provided by:
Wallingford Funeral Home - Wallingford809 North Main Street Ext., Wallingford, CT 06492
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