Gary's Story by Brian Spitz

A tribute to Gary's incredible life by Riekes alum, Brian Spitz - and the legacy left for all of us at the Riekes Center.

For more information on Gary's legacy, click below:

Riekes Family Zoom for Gary

For those who were unable to attend our online gathering here is the recording of our Zoom for Gary.

Gary Riekes Zoombration of Life (April 1, 2021) from Riekes Center on Vimeo.

To Our Riekes Community:

It is with heavy hearts that we announce that Gary Riekes passed away recently at his home. We look forward to planning a time when we can gather together, and celebrate his incredible life and impact on us all.

Gary has always said that the Riekes Center is bigger than himself and his biggest dream was for it to live on in perpetuity. Carrying on Gary's vision, we feel very confident that together we will make the Riekes Center continue into the future and fulfill all of Gary’s dreams.

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This is a sad time, but Gary believed more than anything that love should prevail. Take a moment today to call a friend, hug a family member, sing your favorite song, or smell the gardenias in honor of a truly great man.

With Love, Appreciation, and Great Hope for the Future,

The Riekes Center

From Our Board:

We join the Riekes Center’s staff in expressing our sadness with Gary’s passing, but also our heartfelt belief that we will continue the Riekes Center’s mission and fulfill all of Gary’s dreams for the future. The Riekes Center is as unique as each of its students, staff, and supporters, and it is up to all of us to band together and keep this special organization outstanding for many generations to come. Above all, Gary believed in the power of compassion and human connection, so during this time, be there for one another and know that we are here for you. Please reach out to the Center if you need anything. We look forward to gathering with you in the future to celebrate the life of this truly extraordinary man, who touched all of our lives in so many ways.

The Riekes Center Board

If you have a personal story about Gary you would like to share, please click here

If you would like to be in contact with us about upcoming events and celebrations for Gary,

click here.

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