Tony Rieth

Anthony John "Tony" Rieth, 69, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, peacefully passed away at home on July 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Tony was born on October 10, 1956, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to Arthur John Rieth and Mary Ellen Rieth (Hahn). He graduated from Skyline High School with the Class of 1975, where he proudly played defensive line on the football team. Following graduation, Tony moved to California, where he met the love of his life, Colleen. Together they began building the family that would become the greatest joy of his life with the birth of their son, Anthony "Tony" Rieth, Jr. In the early 1980s, they returned to Idaho Falls, where Tony established his own flooring business and built the life and community he cherished for the rest of his years.

Tony was known for his remarkable work ethic. After building a successful flooring business, he later joined the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 302, where he worked as a heavy equipment operator until retiring in 2023.

Some of Tony's happiest days were spent outdoors. Whether hunting in the mountains, fishing Idaho's rivers and lakes, camping with family, running his jet boat, reloading ammunition, reading his Bible, or watching an episode of Gunsmoke, he found peace in simple moments and in God's creation. His outdoor adventures became some of his family's most treasured memories. He was also a faithful member of OutWest Bible Church, and he cherished every visit he had with Pastor Scotty Brown.

Although his given name was Anthony, those who knew him best simply called him "Big Daddy." Many of his friends knew him only by that nickname, and it fit him perfectly. Big Daddy was fiercely loyal to his family and friends; if he called you a friend, you had one for life. He believed being on time meant arriving early and carried that discipline into everything he did. He was famous for his enthusiastic air-guitar performances whenever one of his favorite songs came on, for proudly serving as the world's greatest back-seat driver, and probably most of all, for his big hugs. Big Daddy had a way of wrapping people up in a hug that made everyone feel loved, safe, and welcome. Those hugs, along with his quiet strength, generous heart, and unmistakable smile, will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his loving wife, Colleen R. Rieth; his son, Anthony J. "Tony" Rieth, Jr., and wife Kierstin; his beloved granddaughter, Kessily V. Rieth; his stepchildren, Marlon Joey Armstrong, Stephanie Penny Armstrong, Malcolm Scott Armstrong, and Richard Michael Armstrong; his brother and sister-in-law Kenneth and Judy Rieth; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Gloria and Gerry Gibeault, Rosalie and Richard Lee, and his sister Mary Donnafield; along with many step-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur John Rieth and Mary Ellen Rieth, and his brother, Gary Rieth.

Tony's family finds comfort in knowing he spent his final moments exactly where he wanted to be-at home next to his wife, surrounded by the love of his family. For those fortunate enough to know Big Daddy, his memory will live on in stories shared around campfires, laughter sparked by his legendary air-guitar performances, the familiar (and relentless) driving advice from the passenger seat, and, most of all, the unforgettable hugs that made everyone feel loved. He leaves behind a legacy not only of hard work and quiet strength, but of kindness, loyalty, laughter, and love. To those who knew him best, he will always be Big Daddy.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. William E. Nibley and the EIRMC staff, along with Aspen Hospice, for the compassionate care and support they provided during Tony's final journey, and to Wood Funeral Home and Crematory for their care and assistance with cremation services.

A Celebration of Life will soon be announced by the family.