Bert Harris Ries Jr. – Somerset, Pa.

In loving memory of Bert Harris Ries Jr. of Somerset, Pa. It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bert Harris Ries Jr., who peacefully departed from this world on July 24, 2023. He leaves behind cherished memories and a legacy that will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Born on Feb. 16, 1948, Bert lived a life marked by passion, dedication and love. He was a man of many interests and accomplishments, touching the lives of countless individuals through his roles as a dedicated educator, a devoted husband and a loving father. A devoted family man for most of his life, Bert spent more than four decades building a family with his first love, his ex-wife Patricia “Tish” Hanna. Together, they built a life of love and shared experiences, raising two remarkable daughters, Amy (Bret) Agostoni of Bethel Park and Erin (Ben) Bestic of Wexford. Amy blessed him with his granddaughter, Talia Grace Agostoni (8), and Erin with two cherished grandsons, Christian Benjamin Bestic (8) and Jordan Patrick Bestic (9 months). Bert was a pillar of strength for his family, providing guidance, support and unconditional love throughout the years. Recently and unbeknown to his family, Bert began a new chapter with Kristina Lynn Ries, whom he wed in February. With a heart full of compassion and a thirst for knowledge, Bert spent almost 38 years inspiring young minds as an esteemed educator in the Ringgold School District. His unwavering commitment to shaping the futures of his students earned him the admiration and respect of colleagues and pupils alike. Even in retirement, he used his time to serve his community as an elected official of the Somerset Area School Board. Beyond his professional achievements, Bert found joy and relaxation in the exhilarating sport of clay shooting. Whether on the range or in the company of friends, he reveled in the thrill of hitting targets and embraced the camaraderie that came with it. His passion for clay shooting was infectious, and he cherished the opportunity to share his expertise and enthusiasm with others as a National Sporting Clays Shooting Instructor at Seven Springs Mountain Resort. Bert shared both his time and treasure with organizations that aligned with his interests. He was a lifetime member of the Freemasons, PA State Education Association, Eldora Rod and Gun Club, Sporting Clay Association, Ducks Unlimited, Keystone Elk Alliance and a benefactor to the NRA. As a lifelong devoted Baptist, Bert was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Donora for over 60 years. He served on various boards throughout his retirement, most notably the Hidden Valley Foundation Homeowners Association, the Somerset County Tech Center Board and chairman of the Ducks Unlimited High Point Chapter, Somerset, Pa. As we mourn the loss of this remarkable man, we find solace in the memories he leaves behind. He will forever be remembered for his warm smile, his generous spirit and the way he embraced life with open arms. He loved Pirates baseball, Steelers football, and watching his grandchildren play baseball, soccer and dance. Following in his wishes, the family has chosen to have a private funeral at Monongahela Memorial Park, where he will be laid to rest with his beloved parents who preceded him in death, Bert Ries Sr. and Lois Ghrist Ries. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to ANTHONY L. MASSAFRA FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE INC. 40 Second St. Ext., Donora PA 15033, 724-379-6900. To share a condolence, please visit www.massafrafuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in Bert’s memory to St. Jude’s, an organization close to his heart.