Michael Herman Rieve

Michael Herman Rieve, passed away unexpectedly on September 23, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. He was 65 years old.

Born on December 27, 1959 in Danbury, CT, son of the late Charles R. and Louise V. (Phrinder) Rieve. Mike graduated from Bethel high school in 1977. He continued his education receiving his bachelor’s degree from Western Connecticut State University, his first master’s degree, psychology, from the University of Hartford and his second master’s degree, advanced counseling degree, from the University of Bridgeport.

Michael was a retired Correctional Counselor Supervisor with the Connecticut Department of Corrections. He was also a professional Licensed Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counselor and an adjunct Professor of Psychology at Western Connecticut State University. His career and passion was to counsel and help others.

Michael met the love of his life at a fire house function, a chance encounter and at the autobody shop a few weeks later they reconnected, and the rest became history. He married Jody Smith on October 13, 1985.

Mike loved to sail. He enjoyed taking his sailboat out on ocean, taking in the sights and sounds. He started the new hobby of golfing; it brought him great joy to golf with family and his friends. He loved RC; helicopter, cars and planes, he may not have been good at controlling them, but he enjoyed it. Mike and Jody were both past volunteers of the Bethel Fire Department, Michael was part of the first dive team.

His greatest passion in life was loving his family, especially his grandchildren, GrandPAHH will be greatly missed by them.

Michael is survived by his beloved wife Jody, his children; Mathew (JamiAnn) Rieve, Kimberly (Jacob) Rieve, Emily (Keith) Heofer and Allison Rieve, his grandchildren; Colette Willson, Cameron Hoefer, Evelyn Rieve and Anthony James Hoefer, his grand pups; Kylo and Zeus; his siblings: Charles (Sue) and Stuart (Ellen) and his beloved rescue pups; Ringo and Lucy.

He will be missed by many dear friends. His laugh and easy conversations will be remembered by all.

A celebration of life gathering will be held on Sunday September 28, 2025 at The Bethel Volunteer Fire Department, 36 South St #38, Bethel, CT 06801 from 2pm-5pm. A private cremation will be held. Danbury Memorial Funeral Home (117 South Street) assisted the family with arrangements. 

In lieu of flowers please consider making donations in memory of Mike to The Bethel Volunteer Fire Department, 36 South St #38, Bethel, CT 06801, https://www.bvfdinc.com/

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