Keith Bierlein

Keith Marvin Bierlein, aged 71, of Vassar, Michigan, passed away on April 24, 2025, at Covenant HealthCare in Saginaw, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on June 21, 1953, in Saginaw, son of Doris (Kischnick) Heindl and the late Marvin Bierlein.
From his baptism on July 5, 1953, to his confirmation on March 19, 1967, Keith's faith was a guiding light throughout his life. A graduate of Vassar High School in 1971, he later married the former Sharon Liebknecht at Christ Lutheran Church in Reese, on June 29, 1974. Together, Keith and Sharon raised their son, Matt.
Keith spent 25 years at General Motors and 5 years at Delphi before retiring, yet his heart remained on the family farm that he lovingly maintained-a farm that has been part of the Bierlein legacy since 1876. His passion for farming was a connection to his heritage and a legacy he passed down with pride.
He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and visiting the Upper Peninsula. His love of reading about Michigan history was not only a hobby but a reflection of his deep roots in the state he called home. He also loved to cook for his family. He loved getting together with his family to make pretzels, brats, polish sausage, and mincemeat and he also enjoyed canning pickles, tomatoes, applesauce, and freezing corn. Keith's service extended beyond his personal interests as he was a member of the NRA, the Richville Conservation Club, a retired member of the Richville Fire Department, and a lifetime member of St. Michael's Lutheran Church.
He leaves behind a loving family, including his wife Sharon, son Matt (Jenny) Bierlein, grandson Lucas Bierlein, siblings Susan (Leroy) Moore, Sharon Bierlein, and Klair (Beth) Bierlein, mother, Doris Heindl and sister-in-law, Lynn (Wayne) Dinsmoore. Keith enjoyed his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and countless friends.
Funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, April 30, 2025, from St. Michael's Lutheran Church in Richville. Pastor Keith Knea and Rev. Wes Gillaspie will co-officiate with burial in the church cemetery at a later date. Keith's family will receive friends at the Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Home, 9940 Saginaw Street, Reese, on Tuesday from 3-7 p.m. and at the church on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider the Richville Fire Department, Richville Conservation Club, or Ronald McDonald House Charities.
All of us at Ware Smith Woolever are honored that the Bierlein family has entrusted us with the care of their loved one.