Riedel Foundation grant to help restore access to cemetery where founder is buried

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Riverside Cemetery in Hannibal has a commanding view of the Mississippi River, sitting adjacent to the local landmark, Lovers Leap. However, if you want to visit a gravesite there, it’s best to have a four-wheel drive — and still be prepared for a bumpy ride.

The Riedel Foundation, established by the late George H. Riedel to fund Hannibal non-profit agencies, is stepping up to help restore access to the historic cemetery.

Riverside Cemetery is the final resting place of George Riedel (1913-2000), president of F&M Bank. He established a trust at the bank to distribute his assets when he died.

Riedel Foundation trustees have awarded a $10,000 matching grant to help restore access to the cemetery where Riedel and other notable Hannibalians are buried.

In a press release, foundation lead trustee Michael Bukstein said, “The Riedel Foundation has awarded more than $6 million in grants since it was established in 2000. It seems fitting that we set aside some money to help restore the cemetery where he is buried.”

Bukstein attended several meetings of the newly revived Riverside Cemetery Association and learned erosion has made the road from Missouri 79 up to the cemetery on the bluff nearly impassable.

Bukstein and his wife, Sherry, are helping to sponsor a fundraiser for the cemetery. The Hannibal Arts Council will be the host of a concert called “Hot Holiday Jazz” at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Arts Council at 105 S. Main. Tickets are $20, and only 70 tickets will be sold. All proceeds from the concert and any additional donations will be matched by the Riedel Foundation, up to $10,000.

Other concert sponsors are Robert M. Clayton II, Lent Johnson and Sandra Ahlum, Ann Nagy and David and Debbie Nichols. Refreshments will be provided. Tickets are available in advance at the HAC office.