William Rinke

William Edward Rinke, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Henry Rinke, was born November 12, 1915 at Wheaton, Minnesota. He grew up on the family farm in the Wheaton/ Dumont area, where he also received his education. After his schooling, Bill began farming on the family farm. On October 30, 1938, he was united in marriage to Esther Rowland at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Dumont. Following their marriage, the couple continued farming in the Dumont area and were active members of St. John’s Lutheran Church. In 1981, they retired from farming, held a farm auction and moved into Morris. After moving, they became active members of Zion Lutheran Church in Morris. They have lived in Morris since that time, and recently celebrated the blessing of 70 years of marriage.

Bill died on Sunday, December 14, 2008 at the Stevens Community Medical Center in Morris, having lived to reach the age of 93 years.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Esther Rinke of Morris; three children: Janice (Larry) Pedersen of Eden Prairie, Karolyn (Stan) Gowin of Breckenridge and Roger (Rozzie) Rinke of New Brighton; 9 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; one brother: Henry (Ann) Rinke of Wheaton and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers: Art, Ervin, Alfred, Lester and Glendon Rinke and by one sister: Emma Leininger.

Pallbearers for the service are all of Bill’s grandchildren. Dorothy Maus will serve as organist for the service. Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris is in charge of the arrangements.