Kyle Francis Motl

Kyle Francis Motl, 31 of Missoula, MT passed away on November 9, 2022, from an unexpected heart complication, he was surrounded by family and friends.

 Born on June 6, 1991 to loving parents Debby Rieker and Aaron Motl, Kyle was a fun child full of curiosity and energy. He loved collecting, playing outside, reading books, the Minnesota Twins, fishing, and swimming. In the summer you could hardly keep Kyle out of Seeley Lake, and his tan was legendary.

Kyle also had a legendary heart and intelligence. As a child, Kyle through keen observation realized the pattern set on the Claw Crane arcade game in town. He would know when to play so he would win, and he won every time. Instead of keeping his prizes he insisted that his Mom take him to St. Pats to donate the stuffed animals to sick children. Kyle graduated from Loyola Sacred Heart High School in 2007.

Living life his way, Kyle worked a number of jobs. Co-workers enjoyed his peaceful demeanor and sense of humor. Kyle’s favorite hobby and talent was developing his skills and craft, forging knives and swords. He had ambitions of becoming a bladesmith and opening his own business. Kyle also crafted his skills for listening and became a talented conversationalist. His discernment in dialogue was surgical in precision and he listened with his whole body. Kyle made others feel safe and heard and in response they happily shared. He had a natural ability to understand the needs of others that did not go unnoticed. Family suggested he mentor people in the art of conversation.

Kyle has always been surrounded by his family, from weekends at the Rieker cabin in Seeley Lake to road trips to the Motl farm in Minnesota. He grew up across the street from his Great Grandparents, and in recent years lived with and cared for his Grandparents. Kyle’s natural ability to understand and take care of others very recently led him to pursue a career in nursing.

A gentle giant, Kyle had a kind smile, big beard, gave the best hugs, and expressed deep love for his family and friends. His sensitivity was his strength and his wisdom. Kyle was an old soul in a young body. Everyone who knew him loved him. Our hearts are broken and we will miss him dearly. Heaven gained an Angel. 

Kyle is survived by his Mother, Debby Rieker (Gary Newlon), Father, Aaron Motl, maternal Grandparents, Robert and Evelyne Rieker, numerous Aunt, Uncles, Cousins and friends.

Preceded in death by his paternal Grandparents, Francis and Mabel Motl, maternal Great Grandparents, Matt and Agnes Goeres, Uncle Donald Rieker, Aunt Ursula Rieker, and Cousin Scott Gooley.  

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, November 21, 2022 at St. Anthony Catholic Church with a reception to follow. Online condolences may be left at gardencityfh.com. Contributions to Missoula Catholic School Foundation in Kyle’s memory would be appreciated.  Their generosity was instrumental in Kyle’s education. (https://missoulacatholicschools.org/)