Obituary of Lester Charles Riel

Lester Charles Riel Sr. (Punky), 77, passed away peacefully in Shoreview on December 7, 2024, after a 2-1/2 year battle with cancer. Les was preceded in death by his mother and stepdad, Rosie and Bud Fagre, and father Lester J. Riel. He is survived by his wife Paula; children: Carl Wood (Maryann), Melisa Riel, Charlie Riel, and Katie Bowne and stepdaughters Dionne Riskedahl (Scott) and Sheri Madison (Jason); grandchildren: Jake, Kassy, Kory, Jason, Andy, Matthew, Rachel, Nathan, Ryan, Dylan, Cameron, Lucas, Alex, Daniel, Taylor, Savanah and great grandson Asher; siblings: Ronald Riel (Maryjo), Sharon DeLacey (Jim) and Kathy Covill; and many other family members. Les served proudly in the United State Air Force from 1965 to 1968 as a jet engine mechanic and instructor. He is a past member of the Minnesota Patriot Guard and felt privileged to be a part of honoring service members. Les was an avid fan of country music starting in his teens. He knew every song and artist from the 50s into the 80s. He was also a country two-step accomplished dancer. Les and Paula met when Paula attended a two-step class Les was helping teach. They spent many nights dancing at the VFW with a wonderful group of friends, the 109 dance group. Fishing was a huge part of Les’ family. Favorite family walleye spots were Mille Lacs, Lake Winnibigoshish, and the waters of Voyageurs National Park. He never caught the most or biggest but always enjoyed being on the water and time being with family. Paula and Les traveled many miles around the United States on their motorcycle enjoying the national parks and many adventures. He was a member of the Ugly Hats Motorcycle Gang and their motto was “Ride to Eat” looking for the best blueberry pie. Due to health issues the past few years camper cabin camping in Minnesota state parks and reading or watching sci-fi stories filled his time. But his biggest love was family. Time spent with them was special to him. After any gathering small or large he would always say “I really enjoyed that.” And that is how he tried to live his life, enjoy and love family and friends and the adventures he had. A Celebration of Life service will held on February 22, 2025, 1:00 with refreshments following at Peace United Methodist Church, 5050 Hodgson Road, Shoreview MN 55126. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to woundedwarriorproject.org. Arrangements by Anderson Funeral Home, St. Paul MN. See andersonfuneralhome.com.