It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Rieko Batka, beloved mother, sister, and friend, who passed away peacefully on February 23, 2025, in Dallas, Texas, at the age of 77. She was surrounded by the love and presence of her only daughter, Christina, who was by her side until the very end.
Rieko was born on June 13, 1947, in Tokyo, Japan, in the aftermath of World War II. She often spoke fondly of her childhood memories, but at the age of 25, she set off for California to visit a good friend, which sparked a lifelong love for the United States. Rieko believed in the endless opportunities in the U.S., first resided in New York City, and later to northern New Jersey where she raised her daughter, Christina. She worked as a realtor for over 25 years, where she built a career based on hard work, dedication, and a genuine love for helping others. During a visit to Texas for a wedding of one of Christina’s closest friends, Rieko knew it was where she wanted to be, especially eager to leave behind the cold winters. Christina made the move first in 2019, and not long after, Rieko followed suit in 2021, residing in the Dallas area.
Her bond with her daughter was the cornerstone of her life. They shared an inseparable relationship, exploring the world together through their love of travel, especially cruises. Rieko was determined to give Christina everything she didn’t have growing up while instilling in her the values of resilience, curiosity, and love.
Rieko had a love for animals, particularly dogs, and was known as an "animal whisperer." She was also an avid collector of kitchenware, dinnerware, barware, and table linens, always ready to entertain guests and create lasting memories. Despite her love for accessories and handbags, she was low-key in her personal style, often donning her signature look of curly brown hair and oversized statement sunglasses.
Beyond her passions for collecting and entertaining, Rieko’s curiosity for knowledge never ceased. She loved taking enrichment courses at the local library and college, continuously learning and expanding her horizons in subjects ranging from flower arrangements and gardening to real estate and finance.
Rieko was a woman of strength, stoicism, and dry humor. Though she held a realist outlook on life, her wit and unexpected punchlines were always a source of laughter for those around her. She courageously beat breast cancer in 1996, and since late 2020, she was valiantly fighting multiple myeloma cancer. Rieko showed immense courage and strength, refusing to let the disease define her, and always remaining a positive outlook.
Rieko is survived by her daughter, Christina Batka, as well as many friends from all walks of life, who will forever remember her for her kindness, infectious sense of humor, and unwavering love.
A graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, February 28, 2025 at Ridgeview Memorial Park, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.