Theresa Rief Obituary
With deep sadness, we announce that on the morning of April 10, 2025, Ter's battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) ended as she was called to be with her parents, family members, and best friend.
Theresa (Terry/Ter/AT/GAT) (Norton) Rief was born on February 20, 1950, to Dottie and Joe Norton. She was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart, Steven Rief on September 16, 1972. As Steve was in the Navy and stationed in Hawaii, they cemented their union by having a yearlong honeymoon on Oahu. Hawaii became their happy place; one they would return to over and over throughout the years. In true Ter fashion, she stunned her doctors and took one last trip to Maui in October of last year. Terry worked for the IRS for most of her career and retired after 35 years of service. Everything about her pointed to her attention to detail – from keeping track of special events and birthdays, to documenting life with pictures and cards. Everything, right down to her immaculate handwriting reflected a woman of grace and dignity.
Terry had a gentle, accepting personality that made you feel good to be around her. She looked for the best in others and went out of her way to help people. This generosity of spirit was evident in her weekly outings with "the moms", her thoughtful cards and gifts, and her donations to charities. Terry enjoyed knitting (especially, Monday knitting sessions), reading, the Brady Ladies gatherings, and Words with Friends. She was an avid thrifter and wore the found treasures with pride.
Terry is survived by her husband Steve of 52+ years (just not long enough); brothers, Mike (Sandra) Norton, Greg Norton; sister-in-law Diane Mensch; Mary McCorkel; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A special thank you to the doctors and nurses at Regions Hospital who took the best care of Terry – especially the nurses at C5300.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Leukemia Research Foundation.
A luncheon will be held at DeGidio's, 425 West 7th Street in Saint Paul, MN 55102, Following the graveside service.
To send flowers to the family of Theresa, please visit our floral store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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1051 South Robert Street, West Saint Paul, MN 55118
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