Bruce Riffel

Charles “Bruce” Riffel was born April 24, 1929 to Charles and Bernice Riffel in Detroit Michigan. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Peg (Bouchard) Riffel, by 3 daughters and 2 sons in law. Kathy Genthe and Richard, Colleen Rabaut and Tom, and Mary Elaine Riffel. He was the proud Grandfather of 9 Grandchildren and 17 Great Grandchildren. He is further survived by 4 brothers living in Saginaw; Dick, George, Tom, and Larry; as well as his sisters Bev Honekan of Ste St. Marie and Mary Agnes Green of Lansing. He married his High School sweetheart in 1951. Bruce grew up in Saginaw and attended St. Andrew High School. He served in the United States Air Force. He spent the majority of his career as a salesman for Smith Douglas Fertilizer which took him to Alpena in the mid 60’s. He was involved in the Civil Rights movements and the Cursillo. His Catholic faith was his central foundation, serving as a lector, Eucharistic Minister, and an usher. He was also member of the Knights of Columbus. He was involved in the Charismatic Renewal in Alpena and later moved to Ann Arbor to be part of the Word of God. He has been serving at Saint Joe’s Hospital since 1977 as a Eucharistic minster. He enjoyed deer hunting and fishing. He always had a smile on his face. Everyone that meets him also enjoy his jokes. He was always willing to help and serve others. Trying to make things a little better for the people he meet. He will be missed by his family and friends. He died peacefully with his family by his side. A Funeral Mass be will be held on Wednesday, July 25, 2012, 11AM from Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church, 47650 North Territorial Rd, Plymouth, Mr. Riffel will lie in state beginning at 10:30AM until time of service. Friends may visit at the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 South Main St, Plymouth, Tuesday from 2-8PM with a Rosary service at 7:00PM. Memorials may be made to the Sacred Heart Major Seminary, 2701 Chicago Blvd, Detroit,MI 48206.