Ryan James Riehl

Ryan James Riehl, whose journey in life, was characterized by love, loyalty and generosity, died February 1, 2025 from sudden cardiac death at the age of 46. He was born on December 17, 1978 to Gary and Susan Riehl in Port Huron, Michigan. Ryan spent his formative years developing a passion for knowledge that would define his future professional and personal endeavors. At the time of his passing, he resided in Novi, MI where he had created a cherished life with his family and friends. Ryan had a distinguished academic path, which was marked by graduation from Michigan State University Honors College, majoring in philosophy and political theory, in 2001. Following graduation, he attended Wayne State University Law School, graduating summa cum laude in 2004. He then went on to earn a Master of Laws (LLM) degree, specializing in tax law, graduating in 2006. Ryan pursued his career as a dedicated attorney with tenacity and integrity. His ascent to partnership at Miller Canfield in 2011 and subsequently, at Bodman LLC in 2022, exemplified his commitment to his profession. He was celebrated among his peers for his remarkable work ethic and passionate devotion to justice, traits that not only propelled him professionally, but also drew admiration and respect from everyone who knew him. Despite his skilled accomplishments, Ryan’s greatest joy and fulfillment in life stemmed from his role as a father, raising his wonderful sons, Nathan and Colin with his former wife, Alison Rogers, fostering an extremely close relationship with his sons throughout their lives. He reveled in their growth and achievements with immense pride and pleasure in supporting Nathan on the soccer field and helping Colin develop his golf game. He derived so much enjoyment traveling with Nathan to out of state soccer tournaments and many golf vacations to Pinehurst, Oregon, and many northern Michigan courses, cultivating an environment of encouragement and love. He had a penchant for beach vacations and embraced yearly family trips for two decades. He had aspirations to retire some day in Saint John, Virgin Islands, which was his tranquil, most special place on earth. Ryan held himself to extraordinarily high levels of moral principles, values which he instilled in his boys during their impressionable years. Ryan enjoyed engaging in meaningful conversations with family and friends and his communication flowed effortlessly, which was a defining element of his personality. He was so clever and witty with such a remarkable sense of humor. It was so delightful conversing with him and he always had such an active listening ear, providing feedback and perspective on any and every topic. His unique ability to draw smiles and laughter from family and friends alike, contributed to the numerous connections he built throughout his life. Ryan’s affable nature and light hearted spirit will be missed. As we remember Ryan, let us reflect on the breadth of his kindness and his unwavering dedication to those he loved and the countless joyous memories he created for all who had the fortune of knowing him. Ryan leaves behind his beloved sons, Nathan and Colin Riehl, his parents, Gary and Susan Riehl, his sister, Sarah Riehl and niece, Julia Salinsky, and his adoring dog, Chloe, numerous close friends, and several aunts, uncles and cousins. Ryan was predeceased by his dear grandfather, James Snider, who he revered. They cultivated a very close bond, built on trust and mutual admiration. They spent an enormous amount of valuable time together until his grandfather’s death. He was also predeceased by his grandparents, kind-hearted John Riehl and Gladys Riehl and also by his grandparents, Bob and Joyce Krenke. Ryan’s family and friends will remember his exceptional kindness, integrity and profound genuineness that made every interaction with him a cherished memory to hold dear. He was the light of our lives and leaves us with an enduring legacy in remembrance of all the love and joy he expressed throughout his life to his family. His infectious smile will be a lasting imprint on our lives. A memorial celebration of Ryan’s incredible life will be held on August 2, 2025 from 3:00 pm until 6:00 pm at the Island Lake of Novi Boat/Clubhouse located at 50444 Drakes Bay Drive, Novi, Mi 48374. We are hopeful that his many friends will be there to share many memories with Ryan’s family. Our family is in the process of establishing a Hypertension Awareness, Education and Treatment Foundation in Ryan’s memory with the goal of raising consciousness of this silent fatal condition if not treated.

Ryan James Riehl

December 17, 1978 - February 1, 2025