It is with great sorrow, and belief in the resurrection, that we announce that Nicholas A. “Nick” Riedel, 30, passed away from natural causes on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at his home in Winchester, Virginia.
Born on June 12, 1996, Nick was the beloved son of David J. Sr. and Marie K. Riedel of Washington, Virginia. He is survived by his grandmother, Janet Riedel of Norfolk, Virginia; his siblings, David (Constance), Annelise and John; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. He is preceded in death by his older brother, Kevin; his grandparents, Frank and Carmen Koha, and Bill Riedel; his aunts, Bridget Riedel and Frances King, and uncle, Donald Riedel.
Nick was a cheerful person of service. He embodied this ethic in many ways: as an Eagle Scout, as a volunteer in the AmeriCorps Vista program, and as a respected ranger at Sky Meadows State Park. He was deeply reflective and creative, with numerous works of poetry and short stories to his name. He was an avid photographer and member of the railfanning community and could often be found trackside with a camera in his free time. Despite physical challenges, he enjoyed hiking, backpacking, and kayaking with loved ones. His determination was evident in the goals he achieved, including hiking 500 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Friends and family knew him as a beautiful soul who embraced life with optimism and humor.
A visitation will occur Thursday, July 30 from 5-7 PM at Maddox Funeral Home (105 W. Main St., Front Royal, Virginia 22630). The Holy Rosary will be led by Fr. David Reinders at 6 p.m. at the funeral home.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held for Nick at 11:30 AM on Friday, July 31, 2026 at St. Peter Catholic Church (12762 Lee Hwy, Washington, Virginia 22747), with Fr. David Reinders as celebrant and Fr. Richard Carr as concelebrant. Interment will follow at St. Peter Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Friends of Sky Meadows State Park, P.O. Box 43, Delaplane VA 20144, attn: Vanessa Lewis, President.
Hey buddy it is me Sebastian, i am gonna miss seeing u buddy when we Railfan together in Waynesboro VA & Shenandoah VA thank for all the memories of Railfanning together buddy thank u for being my friend buddy 💔💔💔😞😞😞😞😞
Our deepest sympathies and prayers as we grieve the loss of sweet Nick. Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord and let perpetual Light shine upon him. Prayers for Gods Grace to comfort the Riedel family at this most difficult time.
I only got to meet you one time up here at the Culpeper Amtrak Station but we saw quite a few trains together that day for what little time I was there. You was very open and talking towards me and the other friend I had with me being Austin. You and Austin hit it off like y’all had know each other for years. As many have said may you rest in peace free of any pain you may have had. Clear Signal’s ahead Nick.
Thank you, Anthony. Nick didn’t know a stranger, and rail photography was his passion! We’re glad you crossed paths.
A deep faith gets us through these times, and I know your faith is strong. Nick was a remarkable young man who touched so many lives in positive ways in his short life here. I’m so grateful to have known him.
❤️
Thank you, Jan, for your comments. We have been truly blessed with a supportive faith community and county. We pray we’ll be with Nick again someday.
Nick was fun to work with. He will be missed dearly.
Rest in Peace, Nic. We all cherished family times and one of my fondest gatherings was the first “Oktoberfest” Dave and Marie hosted at home was so much fun and I recall you were a youngster that year, me rocking in the living room with you crawled up on my lap falling asleep ! All the food and fun!
And every season that still porch with the lights!!
Love you very much Nic! Auntie Pam
And you’re sure to recall the time Annie , Breanna and Katherine went to Myrtle Beach with me. Then you boys came to our Danville House with your Mom … much love, Auntie Pam. I may have a couple different dance competitions Katherine was in and the girls came along for the fun too. One in Norfolk and another at beach as you may know Nic, I have an elephant memory but in recent months that memory though vividly sometimes becomes overlapping. Love Auntie Pam.,. Breanna Annie and Katherine will recall the specifics
Katherine was involved in dance competition
To the Riedel Family, You have my deepest sympathy. I remember when Nick started school. He always had a smile and was a ray of sunshine for all who knew him. I know he is resting in our Lord’s hands. Linda Clark
Colleen and I send our heartfelt prayers to the Riedel family. We hope that, in time, the memories of him will bring more smiles than tears, and that you find comfort in the joy Nick shared with all who knew him.
I remember when I first met you at Long bridge park, and I want to thank you for that info about CSX 1853 and AMTK 160 on that day, I will miss you Nick, I’ll see you on the other side.
David and Marie my love goes out to you. Your Nick was so special and loved. I remember when he was born and saw him thru school. I wish there was more I could do for you. Dave, I will always remember our talks at VHFS. Take care of each other. dottie
Thank you Dottie. Your support plus that of family, friends, church community and faith in God have helped Marie and I weather this loss. Nick had an incredibly full life and never let Dwarfism slow him down. He was like an “Ever Ready bunny” but also compassionate. He remains with us in Spirit. Thank you again.