Frederick Dean Reiken

Frederick Dean Reiken, 87, of Traverse City and formerly of Wabash, IN, passed away May 2, 2021 at the Grand Traverse Pavilions.

Fred was born on August 26, 1933 in Ijamsville, IN to the late Frederick and Della (Forst) Reiken.

On September 1, 1954, Fred married Dorthy F. Unger in Wabash, IN.

Fred was employed as a lab technician for 27 years with the Container Corp. of America. He attended St. Bernard Catholic Church in Wabash and was a member of the Jaycees and Knights of Columbus. In Traverse City, he attended Christ the King Catholic Church.

Fred was a diehard Notre Dame fan (GO IRISH!) and a lifelong euchre player. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, and, in his early years, boxing. He made the best Margaritas and always had a pitcher ready when family and friends showed up.

Fred will be remembered for his devotion to his family. He was a loving dad and a wonderful, caring grandpa and uncle. His mischievous sense of humor will be greatly missed...he always had the perfect timing and delivery of jokes. Quite simply, he was a joy to be around.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents and sister Evelyn Weaver.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Dorthy; their children Kimberley (Ramon) LeDoux, Cinda (Kevin) Hipskind, Christopher (Barbara) Reiken, and Martin (Barb White); grandchildren Andrea (John) Miller, Austin (Erika) Reiken, and Mary (Fiancé Robert Morrissey); and great grandchildren Ava, Elaina, Philip, and Lily; and his beloved cat whom he affectionately called Jimmy John.

The Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, May 7, 2021 at 10:00 am with visitation beginning at 9:30 am at Christ The King.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association (Alzheimer's Foundation of America) or to the Father Fred Foundation ( https://www.fatherfred.org/ ).