Obituaries

Donald A. Riley

Photo of Donald A. Riley
DONALD A RILEY, age 88, passed away among family on Jan. 29, 2017. Don is preceded in death by his wife, Jean of 58 years and is survived by son Mike Riley (Sue) of Horseshoe Bay, Texas, daughters Donna Riley (Marty) of Amherst, N.H., Kim Ferguson (Bob) of Sherwood, Ark., seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Don spent his early years in Bensenville, Ill., where he met his wife Jean in high school. He worked at Johnson & Johnson in Illinois before a promotion to North Little Rock in 1960 where he and Jean lived together for 50+ years. Don worked as a factory supervisor at J & J retiring after a 29 year career. He had many passions with his favorite being helping people towards wellness and better health. He and Jean had a network of friends and customers whom they guided to be more knowledgeable and proactive about healthy living. His giving ways will continue to be an inspiration to those who knew his helpful spirit. Don loved to laugh and amuse others with his droll sense of humor. He had a knack for telling both poignant and funny stories of his adventures with his boyhood friends in the old neighborhood during the WWII years. He continued to reminisce with the "gang" for over 70 years. His "green thumb" grew a prolific vegetable garden which included his yearly challenge; growing Rhubarb in the Arkansas heat. Don's affection for Rhubarb began in his teen years in Illinois where his mother fixed tasty dishes. He was always on the lookout for their equal. Don was on a quest to learn about the intelligence and capabilities of dogs. He enjoyed training his dogs and knew that a well-trained dog was a contented dog. His knowledge of electric motors lead to a hobby of fixing antique electric toasters and room fans. Don's mission was to give broken 60 year old appliances a renewed useful life. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sherwood Animal Services, (501) 835-2287. www.facebook.com/sherwood.shelter. Condolences may be offered at www.csnh.com. A private family celebration of life is planned.

Published February 5, 2017

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