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Steven Riecker Obituary

Riecker, Steven
Steven T. Riecker of Thompsonville, Michigan passed away May 11, 2023 at Munson Medical Center following emergency heart surgery. He was 64. Steven was born on August 13, 1958, to Judith (Towsley) Riecker and James Riecker in Ann Arbor, home of his beloved Michigan Wolverines. He graduated from Greenhills School in 1976, and he was a 1980 Graduate of Hillsdale College. Steven was married to Nancy Riecker (Tufts) on December, 23, 1978. They moved north to Traverse City, MI and opened an art gallery, Riecker's Outdoor Gallery in 1984. Downtown Traverse was a favorite place and topic of conversation for Steven. Over the years, Steven worked in real estate, car sales, and most recently, he followed his passion for golf into a job with the Crystal Mountain golf course grounds crew. Steven loved to talk fishing, especially fly fishing in his favorite rivers and streams along the Betsie and Boardman rivers. He spent many happy years pulling brown trout from the streams and ponds at the Benmark cabin. He also made many fond memories hunting deer in the Upper Peninsula with his deer camp buddies, bringing home just enough venison that he never forgot the taste. In his spare time, Steven liked to golf, and to watch Wolverine football till about the third quarter when, even when they had a lead, he just knew they were going to lose. He was also a man dedicated to the grill and spent years honing his craft and grilling for his family. Steven leaves behind his wife Nancy, two sons, Randall and Micah, and grandsons Vaughn, Frank, and Oscar. He is also survived by mother Judith Dow Rumelhart, and brother Charlie. Steven was preceded in death by his father and grandparents, Dr. and Mrs. Harry A. Towsley. The family would like to thank the incredible people at Munson Medical Center for their efforts and kindness. A celebration of Steven's life was held on Tuesday, May 16, 2023 at the First Congregational Church in Frankfort, Michigan. Those wishing to offer an expression of sympathy, please consider donating to Grow Benzie, the Torch Conservation Club, or the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy in Steven's honor.
Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home
Traverse City, MI

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Ann Arbor News from May 15 to May 18, 2023.

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Michael B

February 18, 2024

Wow, I am really sorry to hear this. Steve was a really great person. I know he will be missed. I knew him from Varsity Day Camp and Greenhills.

Virginia Compere

May 31, 2023

Such a kind, sweet person. I remember him well in the Greenhills class of '76. A friend of my brother Ty. So very, very sorry Judy, Nancy and Charlie!

Martha H. Friedlander

May 18, 2023

I remember Steve very fondly as a former student and always enjoyed news of him from his exploits in Traverse City. I was especially touched when he sought me out at a 50th anniversary event for our school to touch base. To Nancy and Judy, I am so sorry for your loss.

John Malcolm

May 17, 2023

I met Steve at Varsity Day Camp in the mid 1960s.
He´d arrive at camp each morning with his ball glove and bat. He was ready to go!
Those were good days!

Catherine Stark

May 16, 2023

I am sorry to read this news. My condolences to Nancy, Randall and Micah. I was a student at Greenhills with Steve and remember him fondly.

Meg Geddes

May 15, 2023

So sorry to hear of your loss. As Katie mentioned, we had a lot of good times when we were kids.

Karen Weaver

May 15, 2023

I am stunned and saddened to hear about Steve's passing. He was a humble sweetheart and always added something to the room in his quiet way Judy, Charlie and Nancy, you are in my thoughts. I am so sorry. Karen Weaver

Katie Geddes

May 15, 2023

Riecker, Towsley, Dow, and Rumelhart families,

I grew up across the street on Devonshire and have many fond memories of playing with and visiting Steve and Charlie. I enjoyed the company of everyone in the household, even the grownups! Please accept my condolences.

Lesley and John Regan

May 15, 2023

Wishing you strength in the sudden loss of Steven. Our especial condolences to his mother, Judith, and our shared nephew and niece, Heather and Christopher.

With our very best wishes,

Lesley & John Regan

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