Roger A. Riley

Born on September 9, 1934, in Detroit, Michigan, to Mary Bernice and Ralph Martin Riley, Roger lived a life rich in laughter, wisdom, and adventure.

A bundle of sass, fast quips, street smarts and practical philosophy, he entertained everyone around him. His wit (and opinions!) never ran dry - whether as M.C. at formal events, or around family holiday tables arguing politics, religion, spirituality and lifestyles - no holds barred!

He was graduated from St. Leo’s high school in Detroit, and also attended Sacred Heart Seminary for a year. He spent some time at Gethsemane monastery with the world renown Thomas Merton.

Roger served 2 years in the army, stationed in Korea as a detonation specialist, near a M.A.S.H. unit. He once joked that the television series "M.A.S.H." was a mild version of his own adventures during that time, showcasing his ability to find humor even in challenging circumstances.

Returning home, Roger dedicated 30 years to the U.S. Postal Service as a mail deliverer. He always finished the several mile walking route early, and for years transformed the lunch table at his sister's house to an informal neighborhood court, holding forth on just about any topic, with his nieces and nephews and often their friends. He would round the neighborhood up for the occasional matinee movie. He created a lot of fun memories and stories for everyone who met him.

In his 40s, Roger discovered a passion for skiing, which led him to a second career at ski resorts, supporting his midlife hobby. He loved to travel, and went all over the world on trips and cruises with his late friend Champ. He spent years in Colorado, working and living at various ski resorts until health issues forced him to slow down. He got his family members to take up skiing and joined him for several years up in Traverse City between Christmas and New Year's.

He moved back to Michigan, and continued to work in various jobs where he could socially interact. He stayed active with the VFW and other groups, and remained a fixture at family gatherings.

He is survived by a sister, Ruth Alice Cummings (Owen) and a foster son Dale Berger (Pam), numerous nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, and even great grandnieces and great grandnephews. Roger was preceded in death by brothers Ralph “Terry” Riley and Frank (Millie) Riley.

He will be missed by a great many people.

A funeral visitation for Roger will be held Sunday, April 13, 2025 from 4:00 AM to 8:00 PM at Harry J Will Funeral Homes, 37000 W. Six Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152. A rosary will take place at 7:00 PM.

A funeral in state will occur Monday, April 14, 2025 at 10:30 AM at St Edith Catholic Church, 15089 Newburgh Rd, Livonia, Michigan 48154. A funeral mass will follow at 11:00 AM.

Roger will be laid to rest in Great Lakes National Cemetery, 4200 Belford Road, Holly, Michigan 48442.

Contributions in Roger's memory may be made to Guest House Mission Advancement , 1601 Joslyn Road, Lake Orion, Michigan 48360 US, https://guesthouse.org/give/.