Roland Ray Rienstra

In Loving Memory of Roland Rienstra

It is with deep sorrow and tender remembrance that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Roland Rienstra, who left this world on April 10 at 4:10 pm. In his final hours, he was surrounded by the love and presence of his children—Rhonda, Rolynn, and Ryan—who held and comforted him as he peacefully departed. Though physically distant, his daughter Rachelle was able to visit from France just a week prior, a gift we now hold as a cherished and sacred memory. Roland’s final days were marked by courage and endurance, as he faced complications from recent spinal surgery along with ongoing heart and lung conditions. His spirit also carried the deep sorrow of losing his beloved wife, Barbara, who passed away just thirteen days before him.

Roland and Barbara shared a lifetime of unwavering love, rooted in faith, family, and a quiet strength that sustained them through life’s seasons. Married for nearly 63 years, theirs was a partnership marked by deep devotion and mutual respect. From their first date on Signal Hill—where a commemorative brick now lies—to their many years walking and biking side by side through Bellflower, their lives were deeply intertwined in simple joys and faithful service. It brings us comfort to know that they are now reunited, embraced in the eternal peace and presence of Jesus.

Roland spent the majority of his life in Bellflower, where he faithfully worked at the local post office for 37 years, retiring at the age of 55. He took great joy in his daily interactions with customers and also held a variety of side jobs—delivering produce and working with the Herald American newspaper. In his retirement, he remained active, riding his bike all over town and joining Barbara on her evening walks. Roland was a man of faith, attending church each Sunday and joining Bible study with Barbara at Calvary Chapel in Downey every Tuesday. He was generous in spirit and giving in nature, faithfully supporting missions through his church.

A true sports enthusiast, Roland loved watching the Lakers and Major League Baseball, and he played tennis regularly with his group of friends on weekends. He lived with joy, integrity, and humility—values he passed on to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His legacy is one of quiet strength, generous love, and steadfast faith.

Roland is survived by his children: Rhonda Renae Beckwith (Dennis) of Azusa, Rachelle Rae Bouhassoun (Nordine) of Fuveau, France, Ryan Andrew Rienstra of Bellflower, and Rolynn Robin Rienstra of Long Beach. He cherished his role as a grandfather to his grandchildren: Brooke Beckwith (James Lobb) of Seattle, Brandon Beckwith (Marissa) of Glendora, Brad Beckwith (Kaley) of San Dimas, Jade Bouhassoun of Paris, France, Jasmine Ouerfelli (Mehdi) of Fuveau, France, Jonah Bouhassoun of Paris, France, Lindsay Rienstra of Upland, and Lily Rienstra of Upland. Additionally, he was proud to be a great-grandfather to six great-grandchildren.

To honor the lives of both Roland and Barbara, the family invites all who knew and loved them to a joint Celebration of Life service on May 24 at 11:00 am at Bell One Christian Reformed Church. Though we grieve their absence, we rejoice in the eternal promise that sustained them—a promise of life beyond this one, where sorrow is no more and love endures.

In place of any flowers, the family would respectfully ask you to consider a donation to the Artesia Christian Home.

https://www.achome.org/donate