John Robert Riley
- 12 hours ago
- 1 min read
May 24th, 1930 - June 4th, 2026
John Robert Riley passed away peacefully at home on June 4, 2026 at the age of 96. He was born to John and Bertha Riley on May 24, 1930 in Spirit Lake, ID.
He attended schools in Spokane, and while living there, he met and fell in love with Beth Reehl. They were married in September, 1950. In May of the following year, they moved to Fairbanks, AK, where John served in the Air Force at Ladd AFB. In January of 1953 John and Beth returned to Spokane, where he joined the Spokane Fire Dept. in December of that year. There, he attained the rank of LT. and retired after 27 years of service.
John was an accomplished and self-taught handyman who was proficient in carpentry, masonry, plumbing, wiring, and much more. As such, he built a home in Colbert, a cabin at Davis lake, and a house at Priest lake. He and Beth traveled extensively with multiple trips to two of their favorite places; Newport, OR and Puerta Vallarta, Mexico. His hobbies included coin collecting and wood carving.
Preceded by his parents, sisters Marie Lawson and Irene Eneroth, and his beloved son James. Survived by his loving wife Beth, son John, granddaughters Katherine and Anne, 4 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Service to be held at Heritage Funeral Home on June 27, 2026 at 3:00 PM. Refreshments will follow.
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