Barbara Riegel

Barbara Ann Riegel, age 93, of Kalamazoo, MI passed away Saturday October 15, 2016. Barbara was born February 14, 1923 in Kalamazoo, daughter of the late Leighton and Kathryn (Sherman) Brown, Sr. In 1942 she married Jack Riegel who preceded her in death in 2007 after celebrating 65 years of marriage. After raising her children, Barbara went to college at Western Michigan University and graduated in 1972 Cum Laude and began a career as Liberian with the Otsego school district. Barb loved singing with Sweet Adeline's . She was also a charter member of the Portage Senior Center, along with her husband Jack and traveled extensively, attending multiple Elder Hostels globally. Surviving are two sons, James Riegel of Kalamazoo and David (Pat) Riegel of Shelbyville; a grandson, Mason (Julie) Riegel of Hudsonville; three great-grandchildren, Macie, Kenzie and Caden; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Robert Brown and Leighton Brown, Jr. A funeral service, officiated by Rev. Dr. Wayne Price, Westwood United Methodist Church, will take place on Friday, October 21st at 1:00 pm at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 South 9th Street., where the family will greet friends from 12-1:00 pm prior to the service. A private interment will be held in Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park South. Memorials in Barbara's name may be directed to the Westwood United Methodist Church, the Portage Senior Center or to Friendship Village, Friends Fund.