Lori J. Riedel

Lori J. Riedel, age 70, passed away unexpectedly on December 14, 2025. She was born on September 19, 1955, and lived a life defined by love, determination, and selflessness.

Lori was one of seven children and learned early the values of family, resilience, and caring for others—values she carried with her throughout her life. She shared 48 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Jeff. Their bond was one of deep devotion, laughter, and partnership. For their recent anniversary, Lori and Jeff celebrated with a memorable trip to Las Vegas, where they enjoyed seeing her favorite band, The Eagles, live at The Sphere.

Strong-willed and determined, yet endlessly caring, Lori always put others before herself. She earned a degree in Fashion Design, a reflection of her creativity and eye for detail. Though her path eventually led elsewhere, her passion for helping others found its truest expression in education. Lori dedicated her career to teaching special needs students at Tecumseh Public Schools. She touched countless lives with her patience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to her students. She retired in 2023, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and service.

Lori was a wonderful cook who showed her love through food—especially her legendary, humungous breakfasts that filled the house during weekend sleepovers with her granddaughters. Chocolate held a special place in her heart, and she had a special recipe for hot cocoa.

She cherished her many friendships and treasured time spent at the family cabin on Higgins Lake. There, Lori could often be found soaking up the sun, book in hand. An avid reader, she found joy and comfort in stories and quiet moments.

Lori is survived by her loving husband, Jeff; her children, Ryan and Ross (Jillian); her cherished grandchildren, Savannah and Evelynn; her siblings, Shelly, Forrest, Jeff, Tracy, Kristi, and Jenny; and many close friends who were blessed to know her.

Visitation will be held at Walker Funeral Home, 5155 W. Sylvania Ave., on Thursday, December 18, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with a funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Toledo Memorial Park immediately following services.

Above all, Lori will be remembered for her generous heart, her quiet strength, and the way she made everyone around her feel loved and cared for. She leaves behind a family and circle of friends who will miss her deeply and carry her memory forward with gratitude and love.