Gary Francis Riegel, 74, of Laramie, passed away on Wednesday, December 21, 2022, in Loveland, Colorado. He was born November 13, 1948, in Cody, Wyoming, the only child of Ted and Martha (Simmons) Riegel. In 1967 Gary graduated from Laramie High and married his wife Grace. They raised four children together and were married until Grace’s passing in 2014. He later married Susan Ahlstrom.
He loved his family, but his greatest love was for his Savior, Jesus Christ. He faithfully served as a member of Bethel Baptist Church for many years. He was known for his generosity to many. He sacrificially supported missionaries, camp ministries, his church, and many family members and friends. He used what God had blessed him with to bless others.
Everyone who knew Gary knew that he loved working on cars and was extensively knowledgeable about them. He started Riegel Body Shop in 1976, and the business he began still serves the city of Laramie today.
He is preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Grace Riegel.
He is survived by his wife, Susan Riegel; his children, Ted Riegel (Robin), Terry Riegel (Kellie), Laura Keck (Kraig), Luke Riegel (Shana); his children by marriage, Ryan Ahlstrom (Sheila), Christy Steinheuser (Jay), and Jared Ahlstrom (Kristy), his grandchildren, Ethan (Bailey), Allie, Ben (Hannah), Elizabeth, Katie, Charlotte, Anna, Emma, Justin, Jessica, Riley, Kaylee, and Lacie; great grandchildren, Lillian and Lydia; and his numerous nieces and nephews.
The funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, December 29, 2022, at First Christian Church with Pastor Gary Skaggs and Pastor Kraig Keck officiating. Interment will follow at Greenhill Cemetery as well as a lunch back at the church.
Gary was admired and respected by all that knew him.
Our deepest condolences to all of the Riegel family.
Keeping Gary’s family and all who loved him in our thoughts and prayers. Gary was such a special person. Always smiling with a kind word and he set an example for all of us. He will truly be missed. Love, Steve & Janice Brown.
I first met Gary when I worked at Wyotech and then he was my "go to" guy when he started his own body shop. He was such a wonderful person and will be missed by so many. My thoughts and prayers go out to Gary's family and friends for God's strength through this sad time.
All my thoughts and prayers to the Riegel family during a most difficult time. Gary will be remembered as one of the most enjoyable personalities in our community. Our deepest condolences to Gary's family and friends.
I am so sorry to hear about Gary's passing. My condolences to his family. He was a joy to care for.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Gary was a very special friend and will forever hold a place in our hearts. We will truly miss him. Love, Ken and. Kathy
My thoughts go out to Gary's family and friends. I circle back to a time growing up in Laramie when Gary's friendship was a true blessing. He was always genuine, fun, and above all else, true to himself. His life was well-lived and filled with the people he loved most. We are so fortunate to have had him in ours.