Albert Riker, Jr. entered this world on February 10, 1944, in Franklin, New Jersey, and departed this world on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, in Branson, Missouri, having attained the age of 79 years.

Albert, son of the late Albert Riker, Sr., and Alice Bernice (McConnely) Riker, grew up in Franklin and graduated from high school. Shortly after graduating from high school, he entered the United States Army and served his country faithfully until his retirement after 23 years of service. He had attained the rank of Sergeant First Class and earned several awards and commendations, some of which include Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (2nd Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Good Conduct Medal (7th Award), National Defense Service Medal w/Service Star, Southwest Asia Service Medal 2/3 Bronze Service Stars, Kuwait Liberation Medal – Saudi Arabia, NCO Professional Development Ribbon (3), Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon (3). 

While stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, Albert met a lady by the name of Connie Faye Ragain. They were united in marriage on June 3, 1973, in Buckhorn, Missouri, and just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. 

After retiring from the military in 1993, Albert and Connie moved to Armstrong, Missouri. Albert worked as a long-haul truck driver for three years before becoming employed with Kraft Foods in Columbia, Missouri, where he worked until he retired at the age of 70. 

In his spare time, Albert enjoyed being outdoors while fishing (especially trout fishing), hunting, working in the garden, and watching birds. He also liked to do mechanical work and would try his hand at about anything when it came to mechanical work. Albert was also a member of the New Life Ministries Church in Plato, Missouri, while living in the area. 

Most importantly, he loved his family dearly and treasured the times that they could spend together. He will be sadly missed but fondly remembered by all those who knew and loved him.

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Connie Riker, of the home in Armstrong, Missouri; his four children, Sherry Riker of Boonville, Missouri; Amanda Riker (Mark Kothe) of Venice, Florida, Molly Thornton (Jamaal) of Fayette, Missouri, and Joseph Saski (Lisa) of the State of Pennsylvania; 12 grandchildren: Alexandria, Madison, Sydney, Allison, Temperance Rose, Amelia, Trinity, Isabella, Gwendolyn, Vincent, Trezure, and Amber; his siblings, Jean Anderson, Jerry Riker, Henry Riker, Michael Riker, David Riker, Gary Riker, and Danny Riker, all from out of state; a number of nieces and nephews; as well as a host of other relatives and friends.

Even though he is gone from our sight, Albert’s love for country, family, and God will live on in our hearts forever. 

Funeral services were held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 31, 2023, in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville/St. Robert, with Bishop Avon Lynch officiating and also sang “Precious Lord, Take My Hand”. The congregation sang “Mansion Over the Hilltop,” and the songs “Scars in Heaven,” “Go Rest High on that Mountain,” and “God Bless the USA” were played. Serving as escorts were the United States Army. Burial with military honors followed in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery of Waynesville. Military honors were provided by the United States Army of Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.  

Online condolences can be sent at www.memorialchapelsandcrematory.com.