Ronald Rieb

On November 1, 2022, Ronald David Rieb passed peacefully at his residence in Cortez, CO at the age of 87.

Ronald was born on October 13, 1935 in Fruitdale, SD to Edward and Katherine (Carr) Rieb. Most of his childhood and school-age years were spent in Belle Fourche, SD. This is where he began a career in auto body and attended school, graduating in 1954. Ronald proudly served two years in the United States Army at Fort Bragg, NC.

He married Denise (Robinson) Rieb in April 1963, living in South Dakota, California, and then Colorado. Over the years, they raised their children while caring for many foster children. Ronald worked careers in auto body, music, as well as radio announcing and advertising. He was a prominent and involved member of every community he lived in, serving as a Lutheran church elder and board member, and as the President of the U.S. Junior Chamber (Jaycees) in Spearfish, SD. There, he was known as the "Golden Voice of the Queen City". Ronald played rhythm guitar, sang, and led live country bands throughout his life.

Moving to Cortez in 1976, he taught auto body at San Juan Vo-Tech. Ronald's voice was known in the community as a singer, on the radio, and also as the announcer at the Fairgrounds Speedway. He was active as a sponsor and member in the racing community, car clubs, and a poker club for over 20 years. He naturally filled the role as the Master of Ceremonies at his high school reunions, sharing jokes, stories, and entertaining. Ronald owned and operated the Muffler Man, then "accidentally" moved to Dennis Rieb's Autoworks, working with his son until he retired at the age of 85. After retiring, Ronald's sense of humor stayed strong as his physical health and quality of life declined. Although he had much to be proud of, he will be remembered for his voice, humor, personality, kindness, and automobiles.

He is survived by his wife Denise Rieb, his children Dennis (Cara) Rieb, Derrick (Kim) Rieb, and D'Laina (Dominic) Chavez. His extended family includes his brother Jim (Cindy) Shaykett. "Grumpy" will be greatly missed by his 12 Grandchildren and 8 Great-Grandchildren. Ronald was preceded in death by his daughter, D'Anna Rieb; father, Edward Rieb; his mother, Katherine Carr; and brothers, Gerald Rieb and Richard Rieb.

To honor and celebrate the full life of Ron Rieb, an open house has been planned at the Rieb residence at 1002 S. Cedar St. in Cortez on Wednesday, April 12th from 1 PM - 4 PM, and Thursday, April 13th from 1 PM - 4 PM. Family and friends are welcome to stop in to share funny stories and memories, with light snacks provided.