George Eugene Riffel Tawas City, Michigan Obituary

George Eugene Riffel

George Eugene Riffel Age 89, of Saginaw, Michigan died on Saturday, August 21, 2021 under the loving care of his family and hospice.  He was born the son of Charles and Bernice (Runkle) on February 25, 1932 in Detroit, Michigan.  George was a graduate of St. Andrews High School.  He was a veteran of the United States Navy Reserve for 8 years.  George married Sharon (Wheeler) on September 29, 1956 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Pinconning, Michigan and together they shared 59 years of marriage and  raised three children.  George worked his entire career for the family business, C. Riffel and Sons, Inc. as a Wholesale Beer and Wine Distributor.  He retired in 1987.  George was a very spiritual person and always started the day with his morning prayers. He was a member of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, member of the Knights of Columbus and American Legion Post 439.  He was an avid reader and in his younger years he would read a book a day, he always had a book or two he was reading at a time and loved sharing his collection of books with family and friends. George loved  time spent with the family at the cottage on Horseshoe Lake, fishing, playing cards and spending time with the neighbors. George was an avid hunter, never missing an opening day of deer season since he started as a teen until the 2020 season. He enjoyed spending time at the Pine River Retreat with his family and friends and especially enjoyed the camaraderie. He was a very loving, kind and generous man, and will always be remembered for never letting anyone leave the house empty handed, whether it was a bag of candy from his candy jar collection, homemade soup, a bag of popcorn, coffee or a bottle of wine, he always sent you home with something.  George loved family get togethers and being able to see all his grandchildren grow into young adults.  George is survived by his children, Karen (Geoff) Hummel, David (Amy) Riffel and Patrick (Jamie) Riffel; grandchildren, Nicholas and Ryan Hummel, Hannah Riffel, Megan (Adam) Tompa, Victoria (Nick) Ross, Evan and Ian Riffel; great grandchildren, Max and Penelope Tompa; two brothers, Thomas (Sue) Riffel, Lawrence (Mary) Riffel; sister, Mary Agnes; brother-in-law, Jim Honkanen; sister-in-law, Peggy Riffel; and many nieces, nephews and friends.  George was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Sharon;  brothers, James, Bruce and Richard Riffel; sister, Beverly Honkanen; brother-in-law, Richard Green; and sister-in-law, Marcia Riffel.   A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, September 11, 2021 at 11:00 AM at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. George’s family will welcome friends on Saturday at 9:30 AM until the time of service.  A private inurnment will follow at St. Andrew Catholic Cemetery.  Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Multiple Sclerosis Society or a charity of choice.  Condolences may be shared at www.bureshfuneralhomes.com
February 25, 1932 - August 21, 202102/25/193208/21/2021
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3 trees planted in memory of George Eugene Riffel.
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The Miszak Family
September 10, 2021
Dave and Family- our condolences to you and your family at this difficult time. We are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Simple Sorrows

Simple Sorrows was purchased for the family of George Eugene Riffel.

A tree was also planted in memory of George Eugene Riffel.
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Tribute Store
September 10, 2021
Dear Pat & Family - Our deepest condolences to you all. Please know we are thinking of you during this difficult time.
Peace Lily

Peace Lily was purchased for the family of George Eugene Riffel.

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The Hummels
September 9, 2021
Karen , Pat and Dave Prayers for Peace and Grace during this difficult time. I hope you find comfort knowing he joins your mom at Our Lords Table
Butterfly Garden

Butterfly Garden was purchased for the family of George Eugene Riffel.

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Tribute Store
September 2, 2021
Dave, Amy and Hannah, thinking of all of you during this difficult time. So happy for all the time you were able to spend with such a special person.
Lavender Fields

Lavender Fields was purchased for the family of George Eugene Riffel.

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Donna McGill
September 2, 2021
I’ll never forget all the mushrooms we found at his hunting place and the many fun times we spent with Sharon and George. Loved them both, Donna McGill
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Kym Riffel
September 1, 2021
In loving memory of our Uncle George. Love Bob and Kym

1 memorial tree was planted in memory of George Eugene Riffel. Plant a tree

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Kathy Hugo (Shreve)
September 1, 2021
The entire Riffel family has always been part of Horseshoe Lake memories I hold dear! Rest in peace George. You will be missed.
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Tribute Store
September 1, 2021
With Heartfelt Condolences,
Simple Sorrows

Simple Sorrows was purchased for the family of George Eugene Riffel.

A tree was also planted in memory of George Eugene Riffel.