Alvin F. Riesbeck, Jr.
On Wednesday, January 15th, 2020, Alvin F. Riesbeck, Jr., devoted husband and father of two children, passed away at the age of 78. Al was born on July 29, 1941 in Chicago to Alvin F. and Virginia (Richter) Riesbeck, Sr. He graduated from Governors State University in 1973 with a degree in computer science and went on to work for the Veterans Administration for more than 30 years. He created the program that pays disabled veterans for their service. On June 23rd, 1972, he married Barbara Ann Markle. They raised two daughters, Vicki and Jennifer.
Al had many passions in his life in addition to his family: trains, planes, ham radio, computers but his main love was photography. He got his start taking wedding photos. But wildlife and landscapes were where he showed off his true talent; he traveled the country, capturing gorgeous sunrises and sunsets at national parks, polar bear cubs playing in the snow, or simple wildflowers growing on a mountainside. His amazing eye was rewarded with awards from the several camera clubs he belonged to along with many kudos from his adoring family and friends. He was also a proud U.S. Army Veteran and a diehard Cubs fan, reveling in the fact that he lived to see them finally win a World Series. He was known for his fabulous sense of humor, mischievous grin, and kind and loving spirit. He will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him.
Al was preceded in death by his father, Alvin, and his stepmother, Charlotte. He is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years Barbara, his two cherished daughters, Vicki (Kevin) Zwart and Jennifer Riesbeck (Brian Opalka), his two treasured grandchildren, Julianna and Calder, his two favorite granddogs, Jaci and Annabelle, several dear nieces and nephews, and so many good friends. A celebration of his life will be held Saturday, February 15, 2020 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church at 2600 75th Street, Woodridge, IL. A viewing will be at 10 o’clock a.m. with a service at 11 o’clock a.m. Express your thoughts and condolences below. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association alz.org.
Arrangements entrusted to Hallowell & James Funeral Home 630-964-6500
May God bless him and the entire family.
Knowing the man that he was
— there is no doubt that Alvin is in Paradise!
His reward IS soo great…
Bless you, Barb.
Peace and comfort to the Riesbeck family. It was a pleasure to have known Al the past couple of years through the Downers Grove Camera Club. May he Rest In Peace.
Lynette See
Barbara, Vicki, Jennifer,
Our condolences to you. Please know that our prayers are with you..
We always enjoyed Al’s sense of humor and interesting stories about his photography trips and related adventures. We will miss him.
I will always remember Al’s big smiling face and laugh. It was a pleasure to work with him at Hines. He will be remembered for being a truly nice person.
Our sincere condolences to Al’s family. It was a pleasure working with him at Hines.
Al was definitely a prankster bUT had a good heart. Sorry to hear of his passing.
Our condolences to you, Barb. and your beautiful girls. Rest In Peace, Al
Sincere condolences to you and your family from the Hardiman family. Our prayers are with you