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Gary Glenn Rifenberg, age 81, of Three Rivers, passed away Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at Three Rivers Health surrounded by his loving family.
He was born July 11, 1944 in Three Rivers, the son of Glenn and Velma “Peggy” Rifenberg, and graduated from Three Rivers High School with the Class of 1962.
Gary furthered his education at Albion College graduating in 1966 and the University of Michigan – of which he was a longtime fan – graduating from there with his MBA in 1968.
On June 24, 1967 he married Judy Stafford. Despite the relationship getting off to a rocky start when he called her the wrong name on their first date, he soon asked for five more dates and they began their lifelong committed relationship. They enjoyed many years together making precious memories with family and friends.
Growing up in the family business, insurance, Gary stepped right into the work as an insurance owner and agent, doing personal and commercial insurance and risk management through Rifenberg Insurance.
Community involvement marked Gary’s life, whether on the Camp Wakeshma Board, First National Bank Board, Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, Jaycees, Planning Commission, Michigan College Foundation, the campaign committee to elect Fred Upton, or the St. Joseph County Community Chest. He was a dedicated member of the First United Methodist Church where he was on the pastor/parish committee, helped with the youth group, worked on the sound system, and taught Sunday School.
Remaining to cherish his memory are his wife, Judy Rifenberg; daughters, Joy (Jason) Scott and Jill (Chris) Katsaros; grandchildren, Jacob (Emma) Scott, Darby Scott, Taylor Katsaros (Matt) Roberts, and Nicklas Katsaros; great-granddaughter, Abigail Ann Roberts; sister, Shirley (Carl) Featherstone.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
His family will receive friends Wednesday, December 10, 2025 beginning at 1:00 at Hohner Funeral Home, 1004 Arnold St., Three Rivers. A funeral service will follow at 2:30 at the funeral home with Rev. Derl Keefer officiating. He will be laid to rest in Poe’s Cemetery.
Donations in Gary’s memory may be directed to Dementia Society of America (www.dementiasociety.org) or Three Rivers Rotary Club. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
