Leo William Riegert, the son of Joseph and Gertrude (Ebnet) Riegert, was born on October 11, 1932 in Minneapolis, MN. As a young boy, Leo moved with his family to the Mahnomen, MN area. Following grade school, he worked for Oak Crest and other area farms for a time before moving to the Iron Range, where, he always said, he "helped build the town of Hoyt Lakes." In the 1950's, Leo moved back to the Twin Cities area and was employed in construction and as a dragline operator. Soon thereafter, Leo met the love of his life, Germaine Bray, and they were married on October 16, 1965. They made their first home in the Twin Cities, living there until their eldest son was born. The little family then returned north to Waubun and purchased a canned milk route. The route was tough and tedious, but Leo never complained as he lifted 100 lb. cans of milk into the truck, by hand, every day. Leo proudly ran the route until the early 1980's, at one time working three years straight without a day off. He also drove the school activity bus. His family grew, as six more children were born. Leo later enrolled at Detroit Lakes AVTI where he earned an Associates Degree in Agricultural Technology. He worked for Midwest Breeders until his retirement. Leo then spent many hours logging and making firewood on his woodland acres. This past November, due to failing health, the couple moved into the Northern Lights Assisted Living Apartments in Ulen, MN. On Thursday, February 15, 2018, Leo peacefully passed on to meet his beloved Creator.


Leo loved auction sales, much to Germaine's consternation. He also had a passion for old vehicles, which he planned to restore when his ship came in (it never did!). Leo had nicknames for everyone, and, although he was a man of few words, he was famous for his one-liners. He often listened and sang along to his music idol, Johnny Cash. Leo enjoyed traveling and was fortunate to make three trips to the "Old Country." He visited Austria, Germany, Czechoslovakia, and Italy. One of his favorite adventures was climbing the 551 steps to the top of St. Peter's Basilica and his visit to the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican in Rome. He traveled across the United States with Germaine on White Earth Tribal business and to the annual Tekakwitha Conferences. Leo may have been a full-blooded German, but he loved Germaine's Native American heritage as well. Leo had a deep faith, and God was always shining though in his life. He truly cherished his family and was a devoted husband and loving father. He was exceedingly proud of all his children, always encouraging them to do their best and get a good education. His grandchildren and great grandchildren were extra special in his eyes. Anyone who received one of Leo's "ear rubs" knew how much he loved them. He had a contagious laugh and found humor in every situation. Leo was always caring for others in need, be it visiting old bachelors, giving rides, providing a meal, or sharing his last dollar - he never stopped giving. He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus for over 60 years, an advocate for the O.M.I parishes on the reservation and a godfather to many. Leo touched many hearts and will be forever remembered.

Leo is survived by his wife of over 52 years, Germaine of Ulen; his children: Leo Jr. of Granville, OH, Kenneth (Christie) of Sabin, JoAnne (John Nelson) of Waubun, Paul of Mahnomen, Mary (Arnie Soyring) of Waubun, David (Amanda) of Beltrami, and Joseph (Amanda) of Mahnomen; ten grandchildren: Nicole, Julia, Leah (Jake), Jacob, Maria, Keith (Chelsey), Samantha, Cole, Austin, and Brett; three great grandchildren, Emmy, Hadley, and Carson; one sister, JoAnne (Milton) Ripley of White Bear Lake; one foster brother, William Nelson of Minneapolis; and Leonard Blaser of Andover, a life-long friend who was like a brother Leo never had. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sisters and brothers-in-law, Marion and Kenneth Blaeser, and Carol and Herb Wendell; and by Darci Nelson, who was like a daughter to Leo.



Leo's family prefers that memorials be given in his memory to either St Anne's Parish of Naytahwaush or St. Benedict's Parish of White Earth. Checks can be sent to Father John Cox at the parish office, 1112 3rd St., Waubun, MN. 56589.