Arvin Edward Reiff

Arvin E. Reiff, 93, of Independence, MO passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 23, 2015 with his loving family by his side. Visitation will be 6-8 pm Wednesday, August 27, 2015 at Speaks Suburban Chapel. Services will be 10 am Thursday, August 26, 2015 at the Chapel. Burial with full Military Honors will at Oak Ridge Memory Gardens. Arvin was born on May 1, 1922 in Kewanee, IL to Gus and Ottille (Ouart) Reiff. He joined the Navy in 1942. He served his country during WWII in the invasion of Cicely, Italy, the Guadalcanal, and the Island of Japan. He served with the light cruiser, the Birmingham with 1300 men. He received the Purple Heart when he was wounded when the aircraft carrier, Princeton blew up next to his ship. Arvin married Jean Smith and moved to Independence, where he joined the Community of Christ Church in 1955. He was ordained a Deacon in 1957, and an Elder in 1968. Arvin along with his brother owned Englewood Dry Cleaning. After selling the store he went to work as a machinist for Allis Chalmers, where he retired after 27 years. Jean passed away suddenly in 1997. Arvin then met and married Alta Seal, she survives. Other survivors include; son Stephen Reiff and wife Deloris, Thomas Reiff and wife Misty; 10 grandchildren; several great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Arvin is preceded in death by; first wife Jean Reiff, daughter Barbara Thornton; step sons David and Mike Seal. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Outreach International or Crossroads Hospice.