Gary H. Rittenhouse

Gary H. Rittenhouse was born January 14, 1947 in Omaha, NE. Raised by his mother, Doris (Wicklund) Rittenhouse, Gary grew up in Valley, NE where he attended school, graduating from Valley High School in 1965. Gary then went on to the University of Nebraska at Omaha and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business in 1969. Growing up, Gary played basketball, was active with the Boy Scouts, even achieving his Eagle Scout, was a lifeguard at Ray’s Lake, took part in youth group at church, and enjoyed hanging out with friends. Gary married Suzanne Stenglein on January 31, 1970 at the Baptist Presbyterian Church in Valley, NE, and to this union, two children were born; Jack Aaron and Brooke Jessica. Gary and Suzanne made their home outside of Waterloo, NE. Gary worked for Guarantee Life Insurance, which later became Jefferson Pilot for 30 years. Gary and Bob Como started the Group Life Insurance Division at Guarantee, and help it succeed. Gary loved his job, but when he wasn’t helping at the agency, he could be found helping at the family farm with any and all jobs that needed attention. He was also active in the community as a member of the Waterloo Rural Fire Board, Waterloo School Board, and District 15 School Board. Gary was a strong, intelligent, faithful, and intimidating man. He stood tall, was full of integrity, and fought hard for his family. He cherished his marriage to Suzanne, loved raising his kids, and his grandchildren; Graci and Garret evoked the most immense love in his life. He enjoyed listening to country music, especially the song, “Always On My Mind” by Wilie Nelson. He savored a nice glass of wine, but could devour an enchilada and margarita at El Bee’s in 15 minutes flat! Gary could build anything, from his and Suzanne’s first house, to buildings, decks and more. He loved traveling the world, fishing, sailing and snow skiing, and despite never training for it, spent 5 straight years on B.R.A.N. with his son Jack, biking all day, and all those nights in a tent. Gary loved living on the lake, and was most content when spending time with family and friends. Gary was always there for his family and respected all people. He was always true to everything he did and believed in, and exhibited tremendous strength as he battled his disease, PSP, for the past 10 years. He was thankful for the life he built and the friends by his side. Gary passed away at his home outside of Waterloo, NE on February 8, 2023, 14 years to the day after his son, Jack passed. Gary was preceded in death by his mother Doris Rittenhouse, son Jack Rittenhouse, daughter Brooke Martinez, grandson Garret Rittenhouse, and sister Carol Dickmeyer. He is survived by his wife Suzanne, daughter-in-law Angie (Chantz) Hanson, granddaughter Graci, brother Bill, and many nieces, nephews, and friends. The family wishes to extend a special “Thank you!” to all of Gary’s amazing caregivers. Funeral service 11 AM Monday with visitation one hour prior to the service at Reichmuth Funeral Home Elkhorn. Interment Prospect Hill Cemetery, Elkhorn. Memorials to the family for later designation.

Gary H. Rittenhouse

January 14, 1947 - February 8, 2023