John R. Rife

February 1, 1956 - June 30, 2009

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John R. Rife, age 53, of Michigan City, died Tuesday, June 30, 2009 in Michigan City at home with his family at his side.

Services will be held Friday, July 3, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at Carlisle Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the service at the funeral home. Cremation will take place. Burial of his ashes will be with his father at Greenwood Cemetery.

John was born February 1, 1956 in Phoenix, AZ to Arthur “Jim” Rife and Margaret “Peggy” (Bennett) Rife. His father preceded him in death, his mother survives in Denton, TX. On May 22, 1976 in Michigan City he married Gwen Taylor, she survives.

Also surviving are sons Jason, Scott (Jessica) and Nick (Stephanie) Rife, all of Michigan City, daughter Heather (Adam) Bagwill of San Pablo, CA, grandchildren Ayanna, Brendyn, Taylor, Tyler, Allie, Elyceia, Cheyenne, A.J., Lennix, Serenity, Seth, Caden and Keira, brothers Henry (Susan), Charlie (Pualani) and Dave (Teresa) Rife, special nephew and best friend Shane (Trista) Rife, and numerous other nieces and nephews.

John had been a carpenter with New Generation Builders.

He was an avid hunter, fisherman and a loyal Colts fan. He was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

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View his video tributeJohn R. Rife, age 53, of Michigan City, died Tuesday, June 30, 2009 in Michigan City at home with his family at his side. Services will be held Friday, July 3, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at Carlisle Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the service at the funeral home.Continue Reading

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I was truly heart-broken to hear of John's passing. I wish I would have known sooner. He was a good friend to me and had a heart of gold. He always lifted my spirits and listened to my crap when I needed to unload it. I'm sure his whole family feels the intensity of the pain and loss from losing someone like him. My condolences to everyone who knew and loved him.

You will always be missed.

It takes a minute to like someone, and hour to love someone, but to forget someone takes a life time. ~

I really didn't know John that well, but the news saddens me. My heart goes out to all Johns family.

My greatest sympathies are with all who loved John. I never spent much time with him but he is in my memories. He was so kind to me when my husband Marvin died. He was one of the few shoulders I was able to cry on in my grief. I will miss him even though we didn't have much contact. We waisted many years with no contact and now I must live with that fact. Miss you John!!

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

He will always be remembered as you share the stories and the memories of how he lived his life and how very much he meant, may you find comfort...And, throughout this difficult time, may you also know the deep sympathy and concern that is felt for you and all your family. I have fought the fine fight, I have run the course to the finish, I have observed the faith.-2Timothy 4:7. As for me, I will lie down that I may sleep; I shall certainly awake, for Jehovah himself keeps supporting me. -Psalms 3:5

I didnt know John very well. I wish I had. He is family and he will be missed. I want the family to know that they are in my thoughts.

Dear uncle John, We miss ya already! You had the best and most contagious smile that lifted even the heaviest frowns. You have caring eyes that showed your emotion. Your attitude was more than we could keep up with at times. The kids love you and we will hold you in our hearts forever. We love you Uncle John!!!! Travis Carla Brianna Arianna Jillian Ivy Tony Glossenger

I'm so sorry to hear about Uncle John, he was a rare breed for sure and will be very missed. My thoughts are with you all.

like all of us, John could be a real sweetheart, he was a part of all are lives,and will be missed by all of us, so sorry you had to go so soon. love you John. may and angel guide you home.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.