Volunteering tradition passed through three generations

For both the Routhes and the Riekes volunteering is a family tradition that is passed down from generation to generation. Hal Routhe, age 85, began volunteering his woodworking talents to Habitat for Humanity in the 1980s. His son Mike got involved about ten years ago and now his teenage granddaughter Brenna is pitching in too. The three work side-by-side-by-side giving back and growing stronger.

“When you’re working with your hands you’re doing God’s work,” says Hal. “You’re giving folks a lift up.”

The Riekes echo that sentiment. Their triple generation volunteer crew is made up of Howard, age 81, his son Steve and his grandson Mitch. The three men have tackled almost every task you can in building a Habitat home – from framing to flooring to plumbing.

Hal and Howard, the patriarchs of these big-hearted families, spent one sweltering summer day together on a rooftop putting on shingles. After hours of hard work in the intense heat they were exhausted. Their wives found out and insisted the men avoid working on roofs in the future. The women asked that the men take it a little bit easier on site. Now their sons make sure they do.

Of course they can always assign their grandchildren, Brenna and Mitch, those jobs best suited for spry, young legs. “If I am able to, I help in any way I can,” says Brenna.

Along with Habitat, the Riekes and the Routhes are linked together through their church Centennial United Methodist in Roseville. Members of both families have taught Sunday school, mentored the youth and prepared meals for the less fortunate.

Both families strive to teach the next generation the importance of service and dedication to others. While watching them volunteer on a Habitat home it’s obvious they take pride in their work, as well as the children they’ve raised.

When Mike is asked why he volunteers with Habitat he says, “I get as much out of it as I give. You sweat together and it brings people closer.” That’s true for strangers and for family members.

Contributed by Matt Haugen