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Les Rietfors
Age 53, called to God February 17, 2005. A life-long resident of Kailua,
he was born there on October 3, 1951. Les passed away peacefully
at home, surrounded
by his family, after a short illness. A loving and devoted husband and
father, he is survived by Cheryl, his wife of 25 years, and daughters
Amanda Rietfors
and Ashley (Ken) Casazza of Fresno, California. He is also survived by
his father Fritz (Lois) Rietfors, jr. of Kamuela and brothers
Ron (Marge) of
Kamuela and Ken (Linda) of Kailua as well as six nephews and five nieces.
His mother, Esther Hodde Rietfors, preceded him in death.
Les was a custom woodworker, cabinetmaker and
more recently a master Luthier, or maker of ukuleles and guitars.
His custom
crafted pieces have found homes all over the world and a twinkle
would shine in his eyes when he talked about his instruments,
often referring to them as “his children”. Les was happy to play
a role by providing the tools for musicians to deliver so much
enjoyment to others.
Not long ago he and his nephew Justin spent
the summer building a guitar together. Les was justifiably proud
of the young man,
especially of his talents in playing the instrument and his devotion
to it. He was able to find much comfort in Justin’s music during
his final weeks. A memorial service is planned for 4-6p.m. Monday,
February 28 on the beach at his beloved Lanikai, Kailua Pavilion
by the
Lanikai Boat Ramp. Les Rietfors will be sorely missed but fondly
remember by those who knew him.
Silence comes slowly
Sleep embraces the body
At
last the light comes
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