Guy F. Riekeman, DC, chancellor emeritus and former president of Life University, has died, Life University announced Feb. 23, after a life devoted to service and advancing the chiropractic profession.
A second-generation doctor of chiropractic, Riekeman served as Life University’s president from 2004 to 2017. The university credits him with helping save and revitalize the institution during a pivotal period and strengthening its foundation for future growth. After stepping down as president, he continued to serve Life as chancellor and later as chancellor emeritus.
He was a leading voice for the university’s “Lasting Purpose” principle, calling on students and colleagues to live with integrity, courage and a commitment to service.
In an email and in a video message to the Life University community, Life University President Brian McAulay, DC, said Riekeman’s impact stretched far beyond the campus.
“His message and his presence inspired generations within the Life University community and far beyond,” McAulay noted, “and his personality was, at times, truly larger than life.”
“Dr. Riekeman was a transformational leader who strengthened our institution’s standing and re-established Life University as a global thought leader,” he added. “His 20/20 vision plan modernized our campus and expanded our clinical reach to places around the world. We honor his lasting purpose by continuing to serve others out of our own abundance, just as he taught for over 50 years.”
Riekeman was preceded in death by his daughter Alexis. He is survived by his daughter Vanessa Helfrich, DC, and son-in-law Jason Helfrich, DC; grandsons Tyler Helfrich, DC (Juliana), Cael and Alec; his sister Cathy Riekeman, DC, and his brothers Russel and Budg.
A celebration of life was held Sunday, March 15, from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Center for Athletics & Sport Health Science TIC Auditorium (SHS Lower Gym) on Life University’s campus in Marietta, Georgia. The university also lowered the US flag on campus to half-staff from February 23 through March 15.
View the recorded livestream of the event here.
For more information, visit life.edu.
Updated March 30, 2026
