STEELEVILLE – Ardell Rieckenberg, 93, of Steeleville, Illinois, passed away on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Randolph County Care Center, Sparta, Illinois.

Ardell was born on December 4, 1932, in Wine Hill, IL, to Herbert L. and Effie (Otten) Rieckenberg. He married Catherine “Katie” Rabe on July 8, 1955, at Peace Lutheran Church, Steeleville, IL. She preceded him in death on January 16, 2022. Ardell was a Veteran of the U.S. Army, having served during the Korean Conflict, 1953 – 1955. He was retired Dairy Farmer and Deputy Field Assessor. Ardell was a member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church – Wine Hill, Randolph County Farm Bureau and lifetime member of B.B.K. American Legion Post #480, Steeleville, IL.

Ardell is survived by his children: Dan (Ladene) Rieckenberg of Steeleville, IL, Debra (Sid) Rathert of Ava, IL; his grandchildren: Michele (Seth) Cross, Alison (Darrick) Knop, Justin Rieckenberg, Abby (Tyler) Woods, Mary (Scott) Walter, Lindsay (Matt) Thies, Matthew (Alexis) Rieckenberg; and his 9 great grandchildren.

Ardell was also preceded in death by his parents, his 3 sisters, 2 brothers and his son-in-law Gary Schroeder.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, 11:00 am, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church – Wine Hill, Steeleville, IL, with Vicar Anne Terry officiating. Burial to follow at St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery – Wine Hill, Steeleville, IL. Visitation will be Tuesday morning, July 14, 2026, where friends may call from 10:00 am, until time of service at the church. Memorials may be given to St. Peter’s Cemetery Fund, and can be mailed to Wilson’s Funeral Home, P.O. Box 217, Steeleville, IL 62288.