Jeff Riewer

Jeff Riewer, 57, of Walker, MN, formerly of Bagley, died on Sunday, June 9, 2024, at his residence outside of Walker, Minnesota.

Funeral services were held June 15 at the St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Bagley with Father John Melkies Suvakeen officiating. Visitation will be June 14 at St. Joseph's from 5-7 p.m., with a rosary at 6:30 p.m. and prayer service at 7 p.m. Interment will be held at the St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery immediately after the funeral service on June 15

Jeff was born July 4, 1966, at Bemidji, the son of Leroy and Connie (Strandlien) Riewer. Jeff grew up in Bagley, where he was very active in 4-H. Jeff won several trips to the Minnesota State Fair showing his sheep. Jeff was baptized, received his first Holy Communion and was confirmed at St. Joseph's Catholic Church where he also volunteered as an altar server. He participated in sports at Bagley High School, competing in football, basketball and baseball. Jeff was selected as a delegate to the 36th annual American Legion Boys State Conference. Jeff spoke often of his decision to become a teacher being a direct result of the positive influence of one of his favorite teachers at Bagley High school, Mr. Don Hood.

Jeff graduated second in his class of 91 students in 1985. He attended Moorhead State University majoring in mathematics education. Jeff completed his master's in mathematics education at Bemidji State University. Jeff began his teaching career at Walker-Hackensack-Akeley High School in the fall of 1989. Jeff especially enjoyed teaching trigonometry and calculus and also served as an assistant basketball coach for several years. He also worked at Pro-West & Associates, a civil engineering firm in Walker. During the summers, Jeff worked at Walker Marine and Sports, he did maintenance for Camp Birchwood, and worked for Ted Nienow at Wood 'N' Things. In 1990, Jeff started his own business called Laser Synergy Woodworking and Engraving.

He specialized in making cribbage boards and ATV license plates. Jeff became very involved at St. Agnes Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. As a member of the Lion's Club he helped with fish frys and the annual Fourth of July parade. He loved golfing with his friends and his golf group was very important to him. His friends will always remember his long drives off the Tee (in every direction). Jeff was also known to pull out some good magic tricks and loved his dog, Cooper.

Jeff is survived by his parents, Leroy and Connie Riewer of Bagley; siblings Rod (Deb) Riewer of Hutchinson, Tom (Penny) Riewer of Bemidji, Steve (Cathy) Riewer of Wadena, Mary (Danvy) Jacobson of Lengby, Rich (Darlene) Riewer of Bemidji; nieces and nephews Abby, Ben and Nic Riewer, Ryan (Johanna) Houseman and Anna Houseman, Sophie and Sam Riewer, Michael (Christy) Riewer, Marcus (Cari) Riewer, Patrick (MacKenzie) Riewer, and Preston (Allie) Riewer, Carissa (Caleb) Curfman, Kory (Kailey) Jacobson and Kyle Jacobson, Austin, Landen and Jacie Riewer; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, great-nieces and great-nephews and special pet Cooper.

Jeff was preceded in death by his grandparents, John and Cecelia Riewer; Helmer and Allyne Strandlien; "Grandma Theresa" Thul; special aunts, special uncles and special cousins.

Jeff will be remembered as a loving son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and a loyal friend to many.

Memorials will be donated to Jeff's favorite charities.

Messages of condolence may be sent to ceasefuneralhome.com

The Cease Family Funeral Home of Bagley, Minn., assisted the family with arrangements.