Riley Brooks Rashka

It is with profound heartbreak that we share the passing of our beloved son, Riley Brooks Rashka, who left us far too soon at the age of 18. Riley’s life, though short, was filled with joy, talent, curiosity, service, and kindness that touched everyone who knew him.

As a baby, we called him Smiley Riley for his radiant grin and warm spirit. He grew into a remarkable young man — bright, creative, compassionate, and endlessly curious about the world.

Riley was a gifted musician who poured his heart into his art. He played and composed for the piano and tenor saxophone, was a published EDM artist and producer, and had a deep love for jazz. Whether he was performing or composing, music was his way of expressing the beauty and complexity he saw in life.

An avid athlete, Riley enjoyed playing tennis and embraced the thrill of snowboarding. He recently graduated from Pleasant Valley High School and was looking forward to attending Iowa State University to study mathematics, physics, and computer science — a reflection of his brilliant and inquisitive mind.

Riley’s life was also deeply rooted in faith and service. He was an active member of Redeemer Lutheran Church, where he was an integral part of the youth group, served as the youth representative on the Church Council for two years, generously shared his technical talents as part of the IT team, and faithfully ran the livestream of worship services nearly every Sunday. His commitment to scouting culminated in earning the rank of Eagle Scout. For his Eagle project, he lovingly refinished the church basement — creating a warm, welcoming space for the youth of his congregation to gather.

Above all, Riley was a loving son, a loyal friend, and an extraordinary older brother to his 11-year-old sister, Rory whom he adored. The bond they shared was filled with laughter, inside jokes, and unconditional love.

He is survived by his parents, Brian Rashka and Lisa Brooks, his sister Rory Rashka; grandparents, Sharon Brooks (Bill McMurtry) and Gus Rashka; aunts, Teresa Pangan, Missy Clemons, and Kay Rashka; uncles, Todd (Ronnie) Brooks, Chris (Teresa) Brooks, and Neil Rashka; cousins, Alex, Justin and Jessica Clemons, and Haley, Cienna, Gavin and Gabby Pangan; and countless friends who loved him deeply.

A celebration of Riley’s life will be held at Weerts Funeral Home on Saturday, August 9, 2025 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Riley’s funeral service will be held at 12 p.m. Sunday, August 10, 2025 at Redeemer Lutheran Church, located at 1107 Tanglefoot Lane, Bettendorf, IA 52722, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to any of the following organizations, Redeemer Lutheran Church in Bettendorf, Iowa, Lutheran Lakeside Camp LLC in Spirit Lake, Iowa, where Riley spent time every summer for the last 6 years, THEGRAYMATTERSCOLLECTIVE or other teen suicide prevention non-profit organization of your choice.

Riley, you were — and always will be — our Smiley Riley. We love you beyond measure.