Services at a later date
Donald “Dutch” Rikli, 95 of Murdock, NE went to be with his Lord and Savior Sunday, June 21, 2020. Dutch was born September 3, 1924 in Murdock, Nebraska, the son of Leo and Edna Rikli. He and his siblings; Vernon, Abe (Warren), and Naomi grew up on a farm near Murdock, NE.
He met the love of his life, Onneatta Nichols at the Riverside EUB Church camp and they married in 1945. Together they farmed and raised purebred Charolais cattle in Murdock, Nebraska. Married for 74 years, Dutch and Onneatta raised 5 children; Bob (Marlene) Rikli, Pam (Ken) Miller, Kathy (Dennis) Platt, Gary (Joni) Rikli, and Connie (Gordon-deceased) Ganz. He was also blessed with 14 grandchildren and 37 great grandchildren. Survived by his brother and sister-in-laws Ruth Rikli, Betty Moore, and Don/Winnie Nichols. Preceded in death by wife Onneatta; siblings/spouses; Vernon/Arlene Rikli, Abe Rikli, Naomi/Lloyd Geweke, son-in-law Gordon Ganz, and 3 grandchildren.
He was a farmer just like most of the men of his generation. But men with his work ethic, his character, and his dedication to his place, his family and his neighbors are rare today. He lived a full life and enjoyed playing the saxophone for local events, singing in the church choir, serving as an announcer and moving the sideline chains at football games, running the clock for basketball and volleyball games – and all while ‘sideline coaching’ his kids.
He was a very loving husband, father and grandfather and could be depended upon to stop whatever he was doing to help others. Dutch had an unwavering faith in God, believing in the power and strength of Jesus Christ’s love and the beauty and peace that would await him after his passing.
He goes to join those who have gone before. He will be greatly missed and we are comforted in knowing that this separation now is but a brief parting, a mere eye-blink in terms of eternity.
Dutch always greeted everyone with a smile and warm greeting. We so looked forward to the homemade caramels. We will miss our friend.Such a model of a christian man.
We are saddened to hear of Dutch’s passing. Always and smile and a greeting, and so much teaching to all of us. We’re sure that Onneatta was waiting for him as he entered the gates of Heaven. And we smile thinking about how much that means to all of you. We will offer our prayers for the entire Rikli family.
THE RIKLI,FAMILY
JUNE/28/2020
KATHY,& CONNIE DAUGHTERS, SO SORRY TO HEAR OF THE PASSING OF YOUR FATHER. JUST, WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW THAT I, AM THINKING OF YOU & THE FAMILY.
GOD, BE WITH YOU
Bob/Marlene,
Our condolences on the passing of your father. We celebrate his life, his legacy, and most importantly his faith but realize he was still Dad and that his passing leaves a hole in your heart. Our prayer is that you will experience the unreasonable peace that only comes from our heavenly father.
Joel & Cathy Hietbrink
Rikli Family,
Sincere condolences to you all,a fine example of living thru Faith and remaining a friend to all is our description of Dutch.
Peace and Prayers
Gary and Les Krings
So sorry to hear of the passing of your father — it was always great to see him and his wife in Sunday School every Sunday morning. He certainly lived a full life — and I am sure you will miss him greatly! May the peace that only Christ can give be with you each and every day!
Gary, Joni and family—our sympathies to you in the loss of your father, Gary. May all of you be comforted knowing he is at peace, and may the good memories help sustain you during this difficult time.
Bob, Pam, Kathy, Connie and Gary and families
Ken and I have many fond memories of our visits to Murdock doing whatever Dutch and Onneatta told us city-slickers to do- mostly to their amusement but always with love. May your memories comfort your hearts as they do ours. We are so sad to hear about Dutch’s passing but know he is filled with joy as he is at peace.
Dear Rikli family,
It was a blessing to know Dutch and his whole family. We wish you comfort and peace during this time.
love, Heath and Lucia Melrose
My condolences to the Rikli family on the loss of Dutch. He was a fine neighbor, cousin, softball player, musician, and fellow Christian. It is true that he helped everyone, When I had my school permit, I once slid into the ditch next to Dutch and Onneatta’s farm while driving to school. Back then we didn’t have cel phones. Just as I was getting out of the car to walk to get help, Dutch appeared, and pulled the car out of the ditch with his tractor, He made my day. Dutch always stood out in a crowd with his cheerful storytelling, and lifted people’s spirits. I know God has welcomed him home.