March 30th 1946 - March 22nd 2025
After a courageous battle with cancer, it is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Richard Riley, who left this world at the age of 78, surrounded by his loving family.
Beloved husband of Nancy Riley, whose unwavering love and presence never left his side throughout his time in the hospital. Loving father of Johnny (Nicole), Ricky (Betty), Christine (Ron), and Katie (Tim). Son to John and Martha (predeceased). Son in law to Arteline (John) (predeceased). Predeceased by his first wife Susan. Treasured grandfather to Sarah, Daniel (Kalene), Justice (Courtney), Paul, Natasha (Beau), Amber, Simon (Sabrina), Charlie, Nick (Lily), Andrew and Susan. Great grandfather to Ellie, Avianna, Xander, Carson and Sophie. Dear brother to Ken, Ron, Evelyn (predeceased), and Allan. Nephew to Austin (Rose). Cherished brother in-law to Debbie (Pierre), Barbara (Bruce), Brenda, John (Rheya), Russell, Austin (predeceased), Rod (Liz & Vicky) (predeceased). Devoted best friend to Len (Lori) and Chip (Linda). Rick will also be deeply missed by his extended family, nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbors and a wide circle of friends whose lives he touched with kindness, humour, and heart.
Rick was a hardworking man through and through. He dedicated over 40 years of service to the uranium refinery. At Elderado, and later Cameco, he earned the respect of his colleagues and formed lasting friendships. Even after retiring, he couldn’t sit still for long. Driven by his energy and love for staying active, he started detailing cars—a venture that brought him joy, purpose, and time spent side by side with his son John. It also gave him a little extra spending money for the things he loved most: shopping trips with his beloved wife Nancy, visits to see his daughters, cheering on the Sault Greyhounds, and enjoying breakfast at the 17 Restaurant with his closest friends. Rick’s strong work ethic and passion for life were evident in everything he did.
That same passion extended to his love of hockey. Rick spent countless hours watching, playing, and even coaching the game he loved. A proud Toronto Maple Leafs fan, he wore blue and white with unwavering loyalty. One of his favourite stories was being there in 1967 when they last won the Stanley Cup—a memory he often shared with great pride to anyone who would listen. He never gave up hope that he’d see them win it again. In the end, he passed while watching one last Leafs game, surrounded by his family. True to form, he chose just the right moment to go, sparing himself from watching them lose one more time.
We will deeply miss his warm smile, his infectious laugh, and his willingness to help others without hesitation. Though our hearts ache, we know that God welcomed him with open arms. We’ll feel his presence in the beauty of the skies, the song of the birds, and the unexpected kindness of strangers. And when you find yourself thinking of him, we invite you to listen to his favourite song, Humble and Kind by Tim McGraw—a true reflection of the life he lived.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, April 5th 2025 from 1-4pm at St. Andrew’s United Church, 25 Centre St., Blind River. Prayers will start at 1pm, lunch and speeches to follow. Arrangements entrusted to Menard Funeral Home.