Marilyn Lovonne Riley (née Litke)

Marilyn was born on January 21, 1955, in Calgary, Alberta. It was there that she met the love of her life, Lou. The two later moved together to Port Moody, before settling in Coquitlam, where they were married in 1975. When Marilyn met Lou, she also became

a loving stepmother to Lou’s young son, John, with whom she developed a very special relationship. She often said that John taught her how to become such a great mom—something she carried forward with deep love and devotion throughout her life.

Together, Lou and Marilyn built a beautiful life, first in Coquitlam, where they welcomed their son Russ and later moving to Port Coquitlam, where they welcomed their son Chris. They later moved to Pitt Meadows, where they created so many wonderful memories. Upon retirement, Lou and Marilyn settled in Agassiz, where they recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on August 30, 2025—a true milestone of love and commitment.

Marilyn’s career began at Luxury Freeze in Coquitlam, followed by a waitressing position at Woodward’s in Coquitlam Centre, where she made many dear friends, including her best friend Lori Thompson, with whom she shared a lifelong bond. She later joined the kitchen staff at Riverview Hospital in Coquitlam and Surrey Memorial Hospital, where she worked until her well-earned retirement in 2015.

A woman of many passions, Marilyn loved line dancing at the local Legion, where she was an active and cherished member of the Royal Canadian Legion in Agassiz. She found great joy in cooking and baking, famously known for her chocolate chip cookies and perfect pie dough. Marilyn had an incredible green thumb and delighted in tending to her backyard, filling it with beautiful flowers. She also had a thoughtful tradition of sending cards for every occasion—Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, or simply to brighten someone’s day.

Marilyn was endlessly proud of her three sons who each held a special place in her heart. She shared an especially close bond with her son Chris; the two spoke almost every day, confiding in one another and offering mutual support through life’s ups and downs. Their connection was a beautiful reflection of Marilyn’s nurturing spirit and the deep love she carried for her family.

Above all, Marilyn treasured her family and friends. She beamed with pride when talking about her five beloved grandchildren, who brought her endless joy and laughter.

Marilyn was predeceased by her parents Agnes and Elmer Litke; brothers Larry, Wade, Howard, Harry, Perry, and Lorne; her parents-in-law Joseph and Mary Riley; and brothers-in-law Peter and David.

She leaves to mourn her devoted husband of 50 years, Lou; her sons John (Heather), Russ (Bernadette), and Chris; sister-in-law Joan; brothers-in-law Jim (Ruth) and Tom; grandchildren Dallas (Stephanie), Jared, Curtis (Anlina), Elizabeth, and Seamus; greatgranddaughters Olivia and Nova; and a soon-to-arrive great-grandson. She will also be lovingly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends.

A heartfelt thank-you to Marilyn’s niece, Dawne, for her incredible care, kindness, and companionship—especially throughout Marilyn’s many appointments and hospital stays. Marilyn was profoundly grateful for Dawne’s love and support. Deep appreciation is also extended to her dear friends Phyllis and Alice for their friendship and comforting presence during her hospital visits.

The family would also like to extend sincere gratitude to the many doctors, nurses, and staff at Chilliwack General Hospital for their care, compassion, and kindness shown to Marilyn and her family during her time there.

Marilyn was a special, kind, and giving person, adored by all who knew her. Her warmth, laughter, and generosity of spirit will be forever remembered by those whose lives she touched.

A Celebration of Life will take place at The Royal Canadian Legion in Agassiz, BC, on November 22, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

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A Poem for Marilyn

Those we love don’t go away,

They walk beside us every day.

Unseen, unheard, but always near,

Still loved, still missed, and ever dear.

Your gentle heart, your tender care,

The love you gave is everywhere.

Though you’ve journeyed to your rest,

You live forever—loved and blessed.