Armand Roger Riel

Armand Roger Riel, 90, of Beavercreek, Ohio, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved. He was the devoted husband of Marie A. (Caranci) Riel, with whom he shared nearly 65 years of marriage.

Armand was born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, on May 15, 1936, to the late Arthur Joseph Riel and Armandine (Gaudette) Riel. He spent his childhood and school years in Pawtucket, where he developed the strong family ties that remained an important part of his life.

Following 1 year, 11 months and 21 days of active-duty service in the United States Army, Armand began a long career with Northrop Corporation in Norwood, Massachusetts. He retired as a Quality Assurance Specialist, bringing to his work the same attention to detail and pride that characterized so many aspects of his life.

To his family, Armand was affectionately known as “Sonny.” He had a gift for conversation and storytelling and could turn memories of his younger days into stories that everyone enjoyed hearing. He loved people, loved to laugh, and was happiest when surrounded by family and friends, sharing stories and remembering the people and places that shaped his life.

He also found great satisfaction in working with his hands and staying active. Even into his later years, Armand remained an avid gardener and took particular pride in his tomatoes—both in their abundance and their quality. Yard work and gardening gave him something to look forward to and a reason to keep moving.

But perhaps nothing brought Armand more joy than bringing his family together around a meal. He loved to cook and took genuine pleasure in preparing wonderful food to share with the people he loved. Family gatherings, a good meal, stories from the past, and the laughter that came with them were among his happiest moments.

Armand's lasting legacy is the family and friendships he leaves behind. He is survived by his beloved wife, Marie; his two sons, Arthur J. Riel (Susana Cumplido-Riel), of East Greenwich, Rhode Island, and David M. Riel (Christy Riel), of Sugarcreek Township, Ohio; four grandchildren, Jessi Riel (Zach Blackburn), Rachel Jones (Jerryd Jones), Alexander Riel, and Elena Riel; and three great-grandchildren, Jonah Kiser, Hannah Jones and Madelynn Jones. He also leaves generations of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends who will miss him deeply. Armand was predeceased by his siblings, Lucille Terrien, Joseph Arthur Riel, Theresa Satti, Edna Randall, Raymond Riel, George Riel, and Gerald Riel.

Family and friends are warmly invited to gather in remembrance of Armand at St. Helen Parish in Riverside, Ohio, where a visitation will be held on September 15, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. A private burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Dayton, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Armand's memory to consider a donation to Samaritan's Purse, Operation Christmas Child. For many years, Armand enjoyed being “Santa” at family gatherings and took great delight in bringing the spirit of Christmas to the children in his family.

Armand will be remembered not only for the years he lived, but for the love he gave so freely—to his family, his friends, and everyone fortunate enough to know him. His stories, his laughter, his cooking, his garden, and the memories he created with those he loved will remain part of our family's story for generations to come.