SUNNYSIDE - Our dearly beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend Herman Dempsey Riffle Sr., Sunnyside, age 91, passed away peacefully and joined his beloved wife on May 18, 2011.
He was born on June 20, 1919 in Hartford, Mason County, W.Va. to Carrie Francis Riffle and raised by his grandfather Millard Lee Riffle. At the age of 12 he courageously worked alongside his grandfather and began his work in the coal mines of Mason County, W. Va.
Herman married his sweetheart, Billie Juanita Williams on Oct. 16, 1940 in Syracuse, Ohio. Together they had four children. They established their home in Sunnyside where they raised their family while Herman worked for Kaiser Coal Company until he retired.
Though we seldom acknowledged it, the common, working men, like Herman built this very nation and ensured its freedom. To you, Herman, a nation owes a debt of gratitude for spending the larger part of you life making the modern world possible, a man of impeccable work ethic with a compassionate loyal spirit. All were welcome in his home and called a friend. He gave freely to anyone in need. He valued hard work and taught us this quality by example. He freely gave service to his family, community and everyone in his presence with a positive attitude, and warm inviting smile. He set a strong foundation of a family heritage to be proud of.
He is survived by his three sons and one daughter; Tony L. (Betty) Riffle, Billie June Price, Herman "Skip" D. (Tana) Riffle Jr., John W. (Beverly) Riffle, 25 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, four great-great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his mom, Carrie, grandfather Millard; seven siblings and his beloved wife Billie Juanita Riffle.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. at the East Carbon LDS Chapel on Wednesday, May 25, 2011. A viewing will be held for friends at Fausett Mortuary (680 E. 100 S.- Price) on Tuesday, May 24, 2011 from 6 to 7 p.m. and Wednesday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. prior to the service at the church. A private graveside service will be held at a later date at the Sunnyside Cemetery.
Services are in the care of Fausett Mortuary. Family and friends may sign the guest book and share memories of Herman at www.fausettmortuary.com.
