Robert C. Riel, Sr.

 Robert C. Riel, Sr., 87 of Auburn, MA passed away Saturday, July 01, 2017 at Beaumont Rehabilitation in Worcester. Robert was born in Worcester, son of the late Adolphus Riel and Eva A. (Riopel) Wheeler.  He graduated from South High School and continued his education from Worcester Junior College.  Robert joined the U.S. Army during the Korean War serving his country proudly.  Upon his discharge from service, he worked as an Insurance investigator for the Hanover Insurance Company.  Following his retirement in 1995, Robert went to work for his son, Robert at Riels Kwik Shoppe & Deli. Robert is survived by his wife of 65 years, Ann M. (Simarano) Riel; his three sons, Robert C. Riel, Jr. and his wife Carol of Auburn, John F. Riel and his wife Maryann of Sutton and Michael E. Riel and his wife Erin of Worcester; a brother, Alfred J. Riel of Munson; seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren.  He is preceded in death by a brother, Roland Riel and a sister, Pauline Larievy. Robert was a member of the Leicester Knights of Columbus Council #4528.  One of Robert’s hobbies was playing the drums with his best friends called “The Moonlighters”.  He dearly loved his wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Robert’s family wishes to thank all the nurses, staff and the Hospice Team at Beaumont Rehabilitation in Worcester for all their compassion and care during Robert’s stay. Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours Wednesday, July 5th from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street.  His Funeral will be held on Thursday, July 6th from the funeral home, departing in procession at 10:30 a.m. for at 11  a.m. Funeral Mass at North American Martyrs Church, 8 Wyoma Drive, Auburn.  Burial with Military honors will follow in St. John’s Cemetery in Worcester.  Those who wish to remember Robert by way of a memorial tribute are kindly asked to consider St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. To share a memory, photograph or online condolence with Robert’s family, please visit: www.mercadantefuneral.com