Richard Gustav Riemer

Richard Gustav Riemer, born May 15, 1944, at Holme's Hospital in Foley, Alabama, died on September 23, 2026. 

A member of Foley High School’s Class of 1962, Richard built a life rooted in work, duty, family, and the pleasures of time well spent. He was part of all aspects of the family farm, Riemers Company, in Elberta, AL where he was raised and lived until he married moved just east to Perdido Beach. He worked a long career with Bell South/Western Electric and Alcatel Lucent Technologies, retiring after 43 years. His steady commitment also extended to military service; he served in the Alabama Army National Guard for 38 years and achieved the rank of E-7.

Richard was a man who delighted in the simple and lasting things that bind people together. He loved hunting and fishing with friends, Auburn football, playing cards, coaching and umpiring Little League, and telling jokes that brought laughter to those around him. He took special joy in teaching his grandchildren how to fish, including sharing the honey holes he and his buddy, Rick Jensen, used to fish in. Those lessons, like so much of what he gave, were about more than the catch. They were about time, patience, companionship, and passing something meaningful from one generation to the next.

He leaves behind many fond memories with his wife, relatives, and friends gathered over the years. His family especially cherished listening to his stories of younger days, including the unforgettable tale of being just 14 years old and sent with a truckload of watermelons to the French Quarter, where he was left to sleep with the load overnight until it could be delivered to market the next morning. It was the kind of story only Richard could tell well—full of color, humor, and the sense that life itself was an adventure.

Richard is survived by his wife, Lorraine (Pi) Riemer; his daughters, Rachelle Byers (Heath) and Colleen Ard; grandchildren William, Benjamin, and Celeste Byers, Fletcher, Amelia, and Keaton Ard; and his sister, Norma Stemm (Bob), as well as beloved nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters-in-law, and cousins.  In their lives, and in the lives of the many relatives and friends who shared in his stories, laughter, and companionship, his presence will continue to be deeply felt.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Emma Schultz Riemer; his father, William Riemer; and his brother, Billy Riemer.

Richard will be remembered for his long years of service, his devotion to family, his enjoyment of the outdoors, and the warmth he brought to ordinary days. His life was one of constancy, character, and memorable stories, and those who knew and loved him will carry him with them always.

The family invites family and friends to join them on Saturday, September 26, 2026 during an Open House and Celebration of Life: 8:30-11:00 A.M. at the Perdido Beach Volunteer Fire Department. 

He will be laid to rest at the State Veterans Memorial Cemetery, in Spanish Fort, at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to make a donation to the Perdido Beach Volunteer Fire Department (8450 Escambia Ave., Perdido Beach, AL 36530), or your favorite charity, in Richard's honor.