Alma Julia (Riehle) Laker, 90, of Sunman passed away Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at The Chateau in Batesville. Alma was born on July 3, 1934 in Ripley County to parents Edward and Edna (Forthofer) Riehle. Alma was united in marriage to Harry Laker on July 12, 1958 at St. Nicholas Church and together they had six children. She attended Marian College, where she played basketball. Alma spent many years working at Seagram’s, Forthofer Market, Milan Food Bank, and Baylor Trucking, but her favorite job was being a stay-at-home mom. Alma was an active member of St. Nicholas Parish, serving in various roles over the years, including Parish Council and the Ladies Sodality, along with other volunteer activities for the church. She was a member of Sacred Ministries and helped put on their conferences. Alma enjoyed cross-stitching, sewing, puzzles, dancing, volleyball, watching Reds baseball, I.U. basketball and the Hallmark Channel. Playing cards was her favorite pastime, either playing solitaire or a competitive family card game that involved much laughter and teasing. Her summers were filled with gardening and canning a variety of fruits and vegetables, with the family favorite being her strawberry jelly and pickled cauliflower. She was strong in her Catholic faith and was often seen praying the rosary. Alma was also a devoted adoration chapel adorer and daily Mass attendee.
Alma will be missed by her children, Anita (Mike) Schuman of Sunman, Gregory (Donna) Laker of Batesville, Carla (Gerard) Enzinger of Oldenburg, Ann (David) Lesko of Sunman, and Gerald (Jennifer) Laker of Batesville; 21 grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren with two on the way. She is survived by three siblings, Betty (Don) Federle, Mark (Carlene) Riehle, and Janet Schwering. Along with her parents, Alma is preceded in death by her husband Harry, son Doug Laker, son-in-law Brent Sarringhaus, siblings Helen Amberger and Brother Ralph Riehle, and great-grandson Carter Bond.
Friends may visit with family on Sunday, December 1, 2024 from 5pm until 8pm at Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home, 107 Vine Street, Sunman. Rosary will be recited at 4:30pm. Rev. Shaun Whittington will officiate a Mass of Christian burial on Monday, December 2, 2024 at 10:30am at St. Nicholas Catholic Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be directed to St. Nicholas Heritage Project for Phase II of the new school building project. To sign the online guestbook please visit www.cookrosenberger.com. The staff at Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home is honored to care for the family of Alma Laker.