Louise Reinecke

Louise Reinecke, 90, of Rhinebeck, N.Y., passed away on Tuesday, March 15, 2022 at her home.

Born on May 31, 1931, in Chicago, Ill., she was the daughter of Presbyterian minister Herman Reinecke and classical soprano Madaline (Seibert) Reinecke.

Louise married Roger Gustavsson (1930-2016) in 1957 in New Haven, Ct.

Louise earned her bachelor’s degree from Wellesley College and her PhD from Yale Divinity School. Between these two degrees, she spent three years working for the International Council of Churches, primarily teaching English in Bagdad, Iraq, where she played violin in the Bagdad Philharmonic. Her service took her to Turkey, Iran, Greece, Lebanon, as well as France and Germany. During this formative time, she not only taught in the classroom, but also worked with volunteer teams installing water systems and rebuilding housing.

A wonderful mother to Marka and 60-year life partner with Roger, Louise was also a passionate, committed teacher of religious studies in higher education. She taught part-time over many years at Earlham, DePauw and Rose-Hulman, finally retiring from academic work in 1985. She then filled her time with community activism for causes including women’s health, arts education and mental health. An avid amateur musician, she played violin and viola in local orchestras and chamber ensembles.

She is survived by her daughter, Marka Gustavsson (John Halle) of Red Hook, N.Y.; her grandson, Ben Halle of Red Hook; her niece and nephews, Susan (Claude), Jon (Sonia) and Mike (Sophie) Welch of California; along with extended family, colleagues and friends.

Funeral services will be private.

Arrangements are under the direction of Burnett & White Funeral Homes 7461 S. Broadway, Red Hook, N.Y.

To sign the online guest book, please visit www.Burnett-White.com.