Thomas Edward Riegle

AT1 Thomas Edward Riegle, 44, stationed in Norfolk, VA, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, February 23, 2018, after a brief battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. He was born February 13, 1974, in Eau Claire, WI, to Lawrence and Marlene Riegle. Thomas was proud of his 18 years of service with the United States Navy as an Avionics Electronics Technician; reaching the rank of Petty Officer 1st Class. His many adventures with the Navy took him all over the world during the course of five deployments while serving with FRC Norfolk Sea Detachment, VAW-116, and VAW-117. He loved spending time with family.

Thomas met his wife Suzanne while stationed at Naval Base Ventura County. The two married in June, 2009, and began their adventure together. The pair knew time between deployments was special and sometimes short so they lived in the moment. In fact, they were planning their next trip to celebrate the end of treatment when he passed away. The two spent their free time travelling to see historical places, national parks, amusement parks, kayaking, wine tasting, and finding new breweries. Thomas had a passion for cooking, smoking and barbecuing, and making anything from scratch. He and his wife loved animals and wildlife; volunteering together with Carpinteria Seal Watch. Most recently, he enjoyed volunteering at the USO of Hampton Roads at Norfolk International Airport. Thomas found such joy in giving back to his community and to those less fortunate. His laughter and his smile will be greatly missed among all who knew him. His wife finds peace in knowing that he was baptized and committed to his faith.

He is survived by his wife, Suzanne Riegle; mother, Marlene Sylvester (Eau Claire, WI); in-laws, Richard and Linda Johnston; stepson, Johnathan; daughters, Haven, Kylie, and Alexandria; sister, Michelle Swinehart; brothers, Leroy Riegle, and David Sylvester; best friend and brother, Wade (Nichole) Hartung; brother-in-law, Richard (Ronda) Johnston; one nephew; seven nieces; two great-nieces; and many aunts; uncles; and cousins. He was predeceased by his father, Lawrence Riegle.

A visitation will be held Thursday, March 8, 2018, from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M., at Ted Mayr Funeral Home, 3150 Loma Vista Road, Ventura, CA 93003. Graveside services with military honors will be held on Friday, March 9, 2018, 1:00 P.M. at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park, 5400 Valentine Road, Ventura, CA 93003.

Memorial donations can be made to Leukemia Research Foundation on their website www.allbloodcancers.org

Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to TedMayrFuneralHome.com.