George Rhein

George T. Rhein, age 87, of Elko New Market, died unexpectedly at his home on Monday, August 25, 2025. George was born on August 12, 1938, in St. Paul, to Theodore and Gabriella (McGuire) Rhein. He grew up in St. Paul, graduating from Harding High School. He met a beautiful young nursing student, Gretchen Simon, and married her on October 17, 1959, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in New Prague. The couple made their home and raised their five sons in Eagan and retired to New Market in 1999. George worked as a truck driver, ferrying cars from dealerships to wherever needed.

He was a member of the Teamsters, the Knights of Columbus, and an active member of St. Nicholas Parish life, following in Gretchen’s footsteps. An outdoorsman at heart, George loved fishing and hunting. He was an avid fan of the Minnesota Twins and loved playing cards, especially 500, Euchre, and Cribbage. One could see the Irish heritage in the smile and twinkle that lit up his eyes, which would really come to light when his grandchildren and great-grandchildren were in the picture! They filled George’s life with joy, especially after Gretchen’s death in 2015. His determination for autonomy kept him independent and in his own home until his death.

George is survived by his four sons, Martin (Marcia) of Burnsville, Michael (Annette) of Savage, Joel (Debbie) of Andover, Randall (Connie) of Lakeville; daughter-in-law, Lisa Rhein of Elko New Market; 14 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife, Gretchen on December 31, 2015; son, Scott; ; siblings, Kari Dalton, Theodore Rhein, Kathleen Dege.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, August 29, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Elko New Market with Father Michael Rudolph officiating. Visitation will take place at church from 10-11 AM. Burial will follow Mass at the church cemetery, with lunch in the church hall.