John Otis Riedlinger, 90, passed away Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at home surrounded by his family in Kingfisher, OK.
John was born January 21, 1934, in Spearville, Kansas. He was one of four children born to John and Carrie (Tonar) Riedlinger.
He graduated from Spearville High School and received his bachelor’s degree from Emporia State University.
In March of 1953, John enlisted in the Navy. He served during the Korean War from 1953-1957. He was stationed with the VF92 Fighter Squad, on the Philippine Sea Aircraft Carrier, Alameda California, and served as a Structure Mechanic. After his tour, he was stationed at Miramar, CA. He was then transferred to “Fautupac” a Fleet All Weather Training Center located at North Island, San Diego, CA, where he finished his service and was honorably discharged.
John met Charlene (Hege) Riedlinger in 1957 and they married in 1959. Three daughters were born of this marriage: Debra, Kyle, and Laura.
He was an insurance adjuster and later opened his own business: Spearville Insurance Agency from 1975-1999 when he sold his business and retired. He and Charlene moved to Dodge City, KS where he
worked for Al Hutton Realty and Pony Express.
John is survived by his loving daughters and their husbands: Debra Lee (Randy) Rockwell, TX, Kyle Cerny (Dennis) Kingfisher, OK and Laura Norwood (John) Rockwall, TX. Three grandsons that were the joy of his
life and 5 Grandkids: Jonathan, Lynda, Alli, and Jaxon Riedlinger; Trevor, ReAnna, Holly, and Lyam Plain; Hayden, Kreg and Jackson Kastner-Plain; and numerous nieces and nephews.
John was preceded in death by his loving wife of 55 years Charlene Riedlinger, parents John and Carrie (Tonar) Riedlinger, sisters Virgina Peters and Mary Louise (Alfred) Hertel, and brother Ron Riedlinger.
Services will be held later at Kansas Veterans Cemetery at Fort Dodge, KS.