Harry R. Reichert Jr., 98, of Columbia, died March 14, 2020, at his residence in Columbia. He was born Sept. 2, 1921, in Columbia, son of the late Harry and Myrtle (nee Ramsey) Reichert, Sr. He was married to the late Alma (nee Reed) Reichert. They were married Dec. 24, 1942, in St. Louis. She died Dec., 21, 1987.

Harry had three passions in life: family, farming and supporting his community. He was born at home in rural Columbia and didn’t live more than a quarter of a mile from his birthplace throughout his lifetime. He was a dedicated, loving loyal, and supportive son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, uncle and friend. He was born into and stayed in farming for 50 years through retirement and for many years thereafter. Nothing gave him more pleasure than to be on his tractor working the soil, throwing hay bales, checking his crops or walking among his herd of cattle.

Visitation and funeral services have been altered to keep folks from congregating in larger groups. Visitation and services will be private. Due to the COVID-19 issues that surround us, the Reichert family has asked that the public please extend their sympathies and respect at another time and place, to be announced later. Please keep prudence and safety foremost during this time.

In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions be directed to: Eagle Cliff – Miles Cemetery, c/o Monroe County Treasurer,100 S. Main St., Waterloo or Hospice of Southern Illinois, 305 So. Illinois St., Belleville.