Duane Riley

In the heart of Magna, a close-knit community with open fields and cradled by the Oquirrh Mountains, our dad was born May 9, 1931. His life was built on family, tradition, hard work, and the simple pleasures that gave each day a purpose.

He was born to Edna Charlotte Coon and Arthur Wright Riley, joining his older sister Jeanne. He wasn’t very old when his parents divorced. He, his mom, and sister then moved in with Grandma and Grandpa Coon. There he was taught that through hard work, you could reap great blessings, especially those of the satisfaction of a job well done, along with the love and closeness of those you rub shoulders with.

Dad was very grateful for his Uncle Blaine and Aunt Lil. Blaine especially filled a gap providing a fatherly influence for many years.

His mom married Bud Meyer and a younger brother Craig was born. Soon after, Dad’s attention was fixed on a gorgeous Garfield girl, Joann Anderson. She captivated him. Thank goodness for her and the complete support she gave. They were a great team. Much to Mom’s chagrin, they were married in October which meant hunting took priority over any anniversary celebrations.

As a young boy, Dad developed a love for horses. He would spend endless hours in fields tending to these noble and strong creatures, forming a bond that transcended words. He learned to whistle the tune of the local meadowlark. When we would ask what they were singing, he would sing back “Magna is a pretty little town”. His perfect pitch was beautiful and carried him around the country singing barbershop with the Beehive Statesman. Through that association, he and Mom thoroughly enjoyed making wonderful memories and lasting friendships.

The rumble of his faithful truck was music to Dad’s ears. Under his stewardship many trucks filled the measure of their creation. He was able to squeeze every last drop out of them. He possessed a knack for restoration, pouring heart and skill into reviving an antique tractor. A labor of love that brought him immense satisfaction.

Nestled in Samak, beneath the shade of tall cottonwoods, Dad built the cabin. His ingenuity made up for lack of monetary resources. His desire to fulfill a dream for his cherished mother-in-law became a haven for his family where many memories have been made.

Dad’s journey was etched with hard work and resourcefulness. He worked for Kennecott Copper, Metropolitan Water, with a side gig operating Riley Backhoe Service. His skilled hands leaving a lasting mark on the land he loved. A jack of all trades and master of most, Dad’s curiosity knew no bounds. He was constantly thinking how he could build or improve something. “We’re burnin’ daylight” was his gentle nudge to make the most of every precious minute.

Dad loved to eat. Some of his favorites were Mom’s spaghetti, a big juicy steak, hot rolls, peach pie, and vanilla ice cream smothered in caramel sauce. He was never without his black licorice. Over the last 2 years, he would often say, “Boy, they sure feed me well up here.”

“Find a deal” was Dad’s mantra. His garage testified of his many Saturday garage sale treasures. We all knew when we went shopping with Dad, he was ready to seize an opportunity and never pay full price for anything.

He adored his children and grandchildren. He marveled at the many opportunities available to them, encouraging them to grasp them and grow. Our dad took great care of our mom. Their 70 years together were magical. He has missed her for 2 and a half years. We rejoice knowing they are together again. We will miss his smile, his tender heart, his easily tear filled eyes, and his tough and rough worn-out hands.

A special thank you to Tami and Gailyn for providing a beautiful home and tender loving care since Mom’s passing.

Survived by his children: Debbie (Randy) Martin, Shane (Lynda) Riley, Bret (Betty Jo) Riley, Tami (Gailyn) Lund, 20 grandchildren, 55 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildren, sister Jeanne Hubbard, and sister-in-law Colleen Anderson.

Viewings will be held Friday, August 25, 2023 from 6-8 p.m. at Peel Funeral Home, 8525 W. Magna Main St. and Saturday, August 26, 2023 from 10-10:45 a.m. at the Spencer 4th Ward, 8181 W. Breeze Dr., followed by funeral services at 11 a.m. Interment: Valley View Memorial Park.