In Loving Memory of

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Stephen James Riedl, beloved son, brother and uncle, at St. Amant on Wednesday, February 4th, 2026 at the age of 57. Soon after Stephen passed away, his death was honoured with gentle words and prayer with loved ones at his bedside.

He leaves to mourn his mother Anneliese; his sister Anita; his nieces, Elena and Sara; his loving family of staff, volunteers and friends at St. Amant, along with his extended family of aunts and cousins in Winnipeg and Germany. He was predeceased by his father, Hubert.

Stephen was born on June 11, 1968 at Misericordia Hospital. His parents were overjoyed to have such a beautiful baby boy and later heartbroken when they learned from doctors that Stephen had health challenges that would significantly affect his physical and mental development. Although he faced a unique journey in health, Stephen embraced life at home with his mom, dad and later his little sister Anita, until the age of ten. Time playing in parks, being outdoors and family trips to the cottage were sources of joy for Stephen.

When Stephen’s needs became more complex, the family circle grew to include a community of people at St.Amant. He was first supported by the St.Amant daycare, then the school, and when he turned ten, he moved to a residential unit at St.Amant. It was both a blessing to have all the people at St.Amant to support Stephen and his family and a painful loss to have to move away from his family home.

Stephen’s mom was the driving force for maintaining a committed, loving connection between Stephen, his family and culture once he no longer lived at home. Every visit to spend time with Stephen at St. Amant was a day-long pilgrimage of sorts, through rain or snow, with mom and Anita travelling on three buses there and then back, all to share joy, and create memories with Stephen and his friends. Good food was a staple for Stephen. Stephen’s mom visited every week through his entire life, bringing traditional German dishes for Stephen to enjoy such as Rouladen or Schnitzel. She also knew Stephen had a sweet tooth like the rest of his family so she always brought him German chocolate, her homemade Stollen and shortbread cookies and his favourite of all, German tortes and cakes.

St. Amant took on a special place for Stephen’s sister Anita in relationship with her brother. It was Stephen’s home, and a place where he and Anita could explore life together. They shared time in the gardens, dipping their hands in the atrium fountains, and of course, enjoying burgers and fries with ice cream in the cafeteria. Stephen hosted his family for special events at Christmas, Spring and Summer Festivals, teas and many other community events.

Stephen always appreciated familiarity and routine, both in his daily activities and in the people he shared time with. He was a sensitive man, appreciating humour, stillness and calm, and will always be remembered as a gentle giant. He also appreciated going out with friends, especially if it meant extra time outdoors. From ball games and city parks, and more recently, time at The Leaf in Assiniboine Park, these peaceful open spaces were sources of ease and joy for Stephen.

Whatever he was doing and whoever he was with, Stephen relied on those who knew him well to support him to have a strong voice. Although he did not speak in words, he could express himself clearly with his presence, his eyes and his deep sounding voice.

As a young man, Stephen was baptized into the Catholic church and enjoyed a variety of weekly chapel experiences of fellowship, song and sharing. Whenever family visited, their time together would end in with a visit to the chapel, sharing prayer, lighting a candle and enjoying quiet together.

In the week since Stephen’s death, staff and volunteers have been reflecting together, preparing for his Celebration of Life. Common memories and themes of reflection have focused on Stephen’s love for his Mom, evident in the moment she walked through the door, in the way Stephen greeted Mom’s gentleness and love with a joyful smile and light in his eyes.

Stephen’s family would like to express their deep love and gratitude for his St. Amant family. In his 47 years as a resident at St. Amant, so many wonderful people impacted his life with such care, compassion, kindness, and love. It was always clear that the St. Amant community was both family and friend to Stephen alongside their support for him. The work at St. Amant will always be appreciated and remembered.

In accordance with his family’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life and Funeral Mass for Stephen will be held Thursday, February 19th at 1:30 p.m. in the St. Amant Chapel, 440 River Road.

“Now cracks a noble heart. 

Good night, sweet prince, 

and flights of angels 

sing thee to thy rest.” 

- William Shakepeare

In Stephen’s memory, donations may be made to St. Amant Foundation, 440 River Rd., Winnipeg, MB R2M 3Z9 or online: www.stamant.ca

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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