Michael G. Riley

Mike is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Judy; his loving son Michael (Lila and stepdaughter Kennedy); his sister Tammy McNeil (Dennis); sister-in-law Sheila Greenhorn (David); and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and colleagues. He was preceded in death by his parents, Evelyn and Grover Riley.

A perpetual student, Mike had a lifelong passion for learning, whether in his professional field, personal interests, or philosophical studies. He earned an Associate Degree in Turfgrass Management from Clark State, a Bachelor of Science in Finance from The Ohio State University, and a Master of Landscape Architecture and Turfgrass Management from the University of Guelph.

Over a distinguished six-decade career, Mike earned recognition as a visionary entrepreneur and leader in the golf industry. As the owner-operator of Larch Tree Golf Course, he built a thriving business and emerged as a nationally respected consultant in golf course management & design, and a sought after specialist in organizing and hosting successful golf outings across the country.

Beyond his entrepreneurial success, Mike held leadership positions with the City of Miamisburg, Montgomery County Parks and Recreation, Five Rivers Metroparks and several local country clubs. Wherever he went, Mike championed green space and community development throughout his life. His enduring influence can be seen in the many parks and green spaces throughout the county and Miamisburg.

But his greatest love was the Mound Golf Course, where he balanced the beauty of its manicured greens & fairways with the preservation of natural wildflower habitats. His journey came full circle when he retired from the Mound, where he had first begun his career 61 years earlier at the age of 15, fulfilling his lifelong dream to end his professional journey where it all started.

Mike was a force: relentlessly driven, ceaselessly creative, quiet yet always grounded in purpose, and a tireless worker. He lived and breathed the mantra “take the road less traveled,” and though his chosen path wasn’t always smooth, it was undeniably impactful. He was happiest outside no matter the weather, more at home in grass-stained work clothes than in a suit and tie and hated meetings that took him away from his time in the great outdoors. He cherished simple joys: dogs, books, thunderstorms, long days on the golf course, manicuring fairways, greens or yards, quiet moments in the garden, hummingbirds, all of nature, traveling to the UP of Michigan or Maine and exploring Oregon with his son, Michael. A proud Buckeye, he held a lifelong devotion to The Ohio State University Marching Band and Buckeye football. He will be remembered for his strength, humility, relentless creativity, and unwavering love for his family and friends.

A private family memorial will be held in accordance with Mike’s wishes. The family extends special thanks to Dr. Pohar at The James Cancer Center (OSU), Dr. Romer at the Greater Cancer Center, Ali Starkey PA-C & staff, Vitas Hospice for their exceptional care. And our heartfelt thanks to Cassie, Mike’s amazing oncology nurse for her kind & loving attentiveness & care during his treatments.

My dearest Mickey Mikey:

“Amíg újra nem találkozunk, szerelmem”

Donations in Mike’s memory may be made to support cancer research at The James Cancer Center:

https://giveto.osu.edu/makeagift/details/316905