SIGI (SIEGFRIED) A. RIECK

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SIGI (SIEGFRIED) A. RIECK Sigi (Siegfried) A. Rieck, age 80, of Gimli, MB (formerly of Thompson, MB), husband of Lee Rieck, passed from this life on Monday, December 21, 2015 at the Gimli Betel Home with his family by his side. He is survived by his wife and best friend, Lee, of 46 years (plus a seven year courtship) along with three daughters; Tanya (David) Horton, Toby (Lyle) Stevens, and Tiffany (Brent) Thorarinson; his beloved five grandchildren Nikolas, Fynn, Charley, Mischa, and Grayson; his three brothers and two sisters in Germany and their families; and many close "family" friends. Sigi was a loving, devoted, and proud husband, father, and Opa. Sigi was born in Koenigsberg, East Prussia on May 27, 1935, son of the late Otto and Charlotte Rieck. A brother also preceded him in death. Sigi was the eldest of seven children. Sigi's career began as a Staff Sergeant in the German Military. During this time, he met Lee and followed her across the ocean to Manitoba in 1964. They were married in Winnipeg in 1969 and ventured up to Thompson in 1971 for a "two-year northern experience." Sigi took on a position with Metropol Security at INCO, later becoming a security supervisor. His friendly disposition, "gentle giant" nature, kind soul, and unforgettable presence, resulted in nearly everyone knowing Sigi by name. He was a man of great integrity and took pride in his work. In 1985, he was granted a one-year leave of absence and became "Mr. Mom" for his girls in Germany, where Lee did a teacher exchange. He retired after more than 30 years. Three daughters and 37 years later (!) Sigi and Lee decided to move to Gimli in 2006 to continue enjoying their retirement and being closer to their girls, and eventually to their grandchildren. Sigi's passions in life were his family, singing in community/church choirs, watching sports on TV, playing soccer and handball, casual dancing, and enjoying the company of friends. He was even a "Master Chef" at two German dishes that were family favourites. Sigi also loved relaxing at their Paint Lake family cottage, taking many family trips, and in retirement traveling and exploring the globe with Lee. He was a true gentleman with a charming smile, who carried himself with grace. Sigi will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A special thank you to the Betel Home, Dr. Rhoma, and the Gimli Hospital for all of their compassionate care and support. Thank you also to Gilbart Funeral Home in Selkirk for all the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Alzheimer's Society of Manitoba. A Celebration of Sigi's Life will be held on Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. at the Gimli Lutheran Church, 50-3rd Avenue, Gimli, MB. Cremation has taken place with interment to follow at a later date. Gilbart Funeral Home, Gimli in care of arrangements. www.gilbartfuneralhome.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 26, 2015