Gary W. Riffle 1960-2024

Gary was born on March 26, 1960, in Warren, to Martin E. “Bud” Riffle and Wanna Howard Riffle.

A proud 1978 graduate of Warren Western Reserve, Gary spent his early career at Denman Tire, where he worked until its closing in 2010. He then joined Kent State University Trumbull Campus, where he continued working until his passing.

On Oct. 17, 1981, Gary married the love of his life, Connie Joseph Riffle; together, they shared 43 years of love, laughter and adventures, especially cherishing their time at Harmons in West Virginia. Gary was known for his quick wit, his knack for telling jokes and his incredible skills as a craftsman and Mr. Fixit. But above all, Gary was a devoted family man who loved his family deeply. He was the best dad to his three children, Stephanie, Erik and Bethanie and his favorite role was being “Papa” to his beloved grandchildren, Natalie, Allison and Parker.

Gary had a passion for fishing, earning the nickname “Walleye Warrior.” He enjoyed tying flies for his annual fly-fishing trips and was a master woodcarver, known for his intricate carvings of Santas at Christmas and pumpkins at Halloween, which he loved giving as gifts to family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Connie of Champion; his daughter, Stephanie (John) Pettit, also of Champion; his son, Erik (Lindsey Hall) Riffle of Sacramento, California; his daughter, Bethanie (Nate Smith) Riffle of Champion; and his treasured grandchildren, Natalie Smith, and Allison and Parker Pettit. He also leaves behind his sister, MaryAnn Zack of Girard; his brother, Marty (Vera) Riffle of Neshannock, Pa.; and many nieces and nephews, along with many dear friends. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Martin “Bud” and Wanna Riffle.

Gary will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Friends will be received from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4, 2024, at Staton-Borowski Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in Gary’s memory, to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Arrangements are entrusted to Staton-Borowski Funeral Home, 962 North Road NE, Warren, OH 44483, 330-394-6200. Dedicated to serving your loved ones. This obituary may be viewed and condolences sent to www.statonborowskifuneralhome.com.

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