Herbert W. Reinke, one of Greenville's most senior native born citizens, died at Green Acres Retirement Living in Greenville on February 03, 2006 of natural causes. He and his family would have celebrated his 100th birthday on March 30, 2006.
Herb was a remarkable man in many respects. He had the good fortune of living his entire life free of pain or disease. He had a voracious love of life and nature, and considered each day to be a blessing. His positive outlook was an inspiration to his family and many friends.
He was a self made and self-educated man. He loved to read, sing, drive (often too fast), dance , play shuffle board (King of the Courts), fish, hunt, and had a strong work ethic. He spent his entire career of 47 years working at Gibson Refrigerator Company, where he retired in 1970 . He was totally committed to his work, and was proud of his many accomplishments.
Herb married Goldie Finkhouse in 1928. They had a wonderful marriage and were soul mates until her death in 1970. Later, he married Neva Nielsen. They were able to enjoy many years together, including their annual winter stays in Ellenton, Florida. Neva was a loving and caring wife, who passed away in 2003.
Herb was the son of August and Elizabeth Reinke, German immigrants , who lived nearly their entire lifes in Greenville.Herb survivied his brother Elmer Reinke, and his sister, Eloise Cook. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Janice and David Meek of Greenville;his son and daughter-in-law, David Reinke and Roxanne Bradshaw of Canon City, Colorado; five grandchildren, Chris Meek, Teri Ruthruff, Tonda Cole, Lisa Reinke, and Alison Schleich; five great grandchildren, Sara, Luke and Kara Ruthruff, and Seth and Jesse Cole. He was a life long member of Hope Lutheran Church, Turk Lake, where he taught Sunday school for many years, and Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Greenville.
An informal celebration of his life was held on Sunday February 5 at 3PM at Hurst Funeral Home for family and friends. Contributions in his name can be made to Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, 908 W. Oak St. Greenville.
