Christian J. (probably Johann Christian originally) Rietesel was born April 10, 1856 in Sommerfeld, Nordvorpommern, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. I have little information on his family background, though the Riedesel/Rietesel name was at one time common in western Pomerania. His death certificate says that his father was also named Christian. Sommerfeld is part of the community of Prohn near the city of Stralsund.
The records show that he came to the US in 1872 and was naturalized October 7, 1884. Like many others from that part of Germany, he settled in or near Chicago. On July 8, 1882 he married Albrtina Maede. She was born March 28, 1859 in Germany to Gustav Friedrich and Johanna (Nagel) Maede who came to the U.S. from Germany as well.
The couple had only a single child, Margaret, that I know of. Christian died April 20, 1921 in Chicago and is buried at the Concordia Cemetery, Forest Park. Albertina lived until January 1, 1943.