Ken was born on September 29, 1926, in Chicago, Illinois to Erwin & Alma Riebe. He graduated from J.S. Morton High in Cicero, IL. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was stationed in Long Beach, California. After serving in the Navy, he enrolled at the University of Michigan. He graduated with a pharmacy degree in 1950. He worked for the Upjohn Company in Kalamazoo, MI from 1950 until his retirement in 1987, and also worked part-time at Walgreens during those years.
In 1950, he married the love of his life, Elaine Gleason. They shared the next 71 years together. They shared a love of traveling across the United States and many other parts of the world. Many of their trips were through the Elder Hostel program. They also enjoyed many casino trips.
Ken was preceded in death by his wife, Elaine, in December of 2021; his parents: Erwin & Alma; brothers: Clifford (his first wife, Janis, and second wife, Helen) Riebe, Glenn (Betty) Riebe; sister-in-law, Marguerite & brother-in-law, Robert Stowers; and granddaughter, Cassidy.
He is survived by his children: Barbara (Kim Herrick) Sumner, Richard (Julie) Riebe, Michael (Denise) Riebe; grandchildren: Ryan, Scott, Hannah, and Elizabeth; great-grandchildren: Andrew, Charles; and beloved nieces and nephews and their spouses.
All are welcome for a time of visitation from 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 30, 2022, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th Street, Holland. A private family funeral service honoring Ken will be held, with burial taking place at Fort Custer National Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be given to Zion Lutheran Braille Workers in Kalamazoo or Habitat for Humanity. www.langelandsterenberg.com.
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