Sharon Riefel

Sharon Elaine Riefel, age 70 years, formerly of Huntly Road in Niles, Michigan died on Tuesday, July 9, 2013 at Buchanan Meadows Living Center, Buchanan, Michigan following an extended illness.

Sharon was born February 3, 1943 in Niles to Gus & Carrie (Vandenburg) Reske and has lived in the area all her life. She was graduated from Niles High School in 1961 and on October 25, 1974, she married Alan Riefel. Alan preceded her in death on February 26, 2009.

Sharon retired from Tyler Refrigeration in 2000 after more than 25 years of service. She enjoyed walking and participated in several 5K & 10K walking events. Sharon also bowled on a league and attended ceramic classes. It became clear in her later years that Sharon loved to dance and twirl around. She was a loyal daughter, sister and wife with a nurturing personality; always putting the needs of others before her own.

Surviving family includes 2 sisters, Linda Ellis of Sault Saint Marie, Michigan and Cindy Borich of Osceola, Indiana, a brother; Larry (& Marie Bowman) Reske of Mishawaka, Indiana, 6 nephews, Brian, Jeffrey and Larry Ellis, Craig Reske and Drew Borich, 2 great-nephews and 3 great-nieces.

She was preceded in death by her husband Alan and her parents.

Funeral services for Sharon Elaine Riefel will be held at 2:00p.m. on Friday, July 12, 2013 at the Halbritter Funeral Home in Niles with the Rev. Wayne Shearier of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church of Niles officiating. Interment will take place at Sumnerville Cemetery in Niles.

The family will receive relatives and friends from Noon until the time of services on Friday at the funeral home.

Donations in memory of Sharon may be made to either the Alzheimer’s Association or Hospice at Home.