Andrew E. Reisenauer July 16, 1925 – August 26, 2025

Andrew E. Reisenauer, a cherished longtime resident of Richland, Washington, passed away peacefully at Kadlec Hospital on August 26, 2025. He was 100 years old and had called the Tri-Cities home for 73 years.

Born in Colton, Washington, to Theodore and Theresa Reisenauer (née Becker), Andrew spent his early years in Colton before answering the call to serve his country. He joined the Washington Guard and later the U.S. Army during World War II, serving honorably in the Philippines and Guam with the 17th Communication Squadron.

Following his military service, he married Alethea Niehenke in Colton. Andrew earned a Bachelor of Science in Bacteriology and Public Health from The State College of Washington (now Washington State University) in 1951. He began his career with the public health department in Richland before joining GE at Hanford as a laboratory technician. His passion for learning led him to take night classes in computer programming, eventually becoming a groundwater hydrologist at Battelle Pacific Northwest Laboratories, where he worked for 36 years until retirement as a senior research scientist.

Andrew was deeply committed to his community. He was a founding member of KC HELP, a charitable organization providing durable medical equipment to those in need, now serving communities beyond the Tri-Cities. A proud member of the Knights of Columbus for 80 years, he served in many roles, including Grand Knight and faithful navigator of the Richland Council #3307. He was also an early supporter of Tri-Cities Prep High School.

His faith was central to his life. He was a devoted member of Christ the King Church for over seven decades, where he and his family lovingly assemble the church’s nativity scene each year- a tradition spanning over 70 years.

Andrew also gave generously of his time to youth and scouting. He served as a Scoutmaster of Troop 249 and executive committee member with the Blue Mountain Council. He found joy in woodworking, fishing, and playing pinochle, bridge, and cribbage. His life was marked by service, craftsmanship, and quiet devotion to family and faith.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 54 years, Alethea in 2005 and 6 siblings. He is survived by his ten children: Guy (Debbie), Paula Heller (Loris), Tim, Dan (Barb), Mike (Cindy), Tom (Judy), Rob (Terry), Andrea Brudevold (Brad), Sheila Schweiger (Rick), and Cheryl Soran; 31 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.

A Rosary will be held Friday September 12 at 10:30 a.m. followed by a Celebration of Mass at 11:00 a.m. at Christ the King Church in Richland, Washington. Graveside services will follow at Sunset Gardens, with a reception afterward at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 2500 Chester Road, Richland.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to KC HELP, 324 W Margaret Street, Pasco, WA 99301.